Ramzey’s Big Ideas #5: Running a Healthy Business
I talk and think a lot about how you can design a better business and think outside every box, bag and basket in the industry. But if you don’t look after YOU – then none of it matters.
A PICTURE OF HEALTH
We’ve had a lot happening at The Grounds recently. Opening new areas of our garden; sharing our vast expertise through a range of on-site masterclasses; constructing, running and removing our Bondi pop-up cafe; and the work that continues on preparing our upcoming CBD store. It can sometimes feel like juggling a thousand different things.
“Try not to become a man of success, but rather try to become a man of value”
– Albert Einstein.
That’s where maintaining good health is so important. Here’s three ways I do it:
BALANCE
What is it they say about “Jack” being all work and no play? It doesn’t just make him a dull boy – it could also make him a dead one. It’s not only impossible to maintain a round-the-clock work presence; it’s also impractical.
I’ve already discussed how inspiration, stories and other ideas and emotions can make your business unique. Inspiration like this is generally something that happens away from your business. Last weekend, I escaped Sydney to one of Australia’s more secluded corners to take some time out and also take stock of my goals and vision for 2017. The peace and quiet was great for this. As Dr John DeMartini says, “You deserve to take the time to focus on the infinite details to create them. Absolute clarity adds vitality and enthusiasm to your actions. The dream is in the detail.”
It was only a few days away, but I returned to The Grounds completely energised. This is how finding balance can be so powerful. Of course you don’t need to enter another State to enter a different state of mind – the same thing can be achieved across town. Just make time for it.
FAMILY
This is also linked to balance, but I wanted to talk more directly to the role that your loved ones can and should play in keeping you and your business healthy.
It’s no secret that my family have played such an important role in both my success and the success of The Grounds. Experiences with my family – from my childhood – formed the foundation for so many of the spaces that we created at The Grounds. But it’s how they continue to keep me healthy that is equally important.
My family helps to keep me sane (they may argue this point, but it’s true), humble and driven to succeed. From the oldest family members to the smallest ones, they provide a sense of perspective, unconditional love and honest no-nonsense feedback that you simply cannot get in any other packaged form.
I say it often, but my family is my strength! And of course, for you, “family” could mean biologically related, supportive and loving friends or a mix of both. You’ll know who they are.
FOOD & EXERCISE
As a busy entrepreneur, balancing work and a healthy lifestyle can be hard – especially when I spend most days around the decadent creations that our executive chef Paul McGrath and his team produce. But just like business, a healthy lifestyle requires you to set short term and long terms goals.
To help me stay fit, I have a personal trainer who has crafted a program that works for me and my schedule. Yes, there is pain – but it gives me variety, keeps me focused and in good health. And remember, sticking with a fitness program is about more than just muscle tone. It improves your discipline in all areas of your life – including your business.
As for diet, that’s where The Grounds also comes to the rescue – with plenty of healthy menu items that fill you up for longer. I believe that a good breakfast is vital to kickstart your mind and body – so nutrient-rich, protein-packed smoothie bowls or low-carb protein shakes with strawberry and coconut water are unbelievably good. (But don’t worry, there’s always room for a cheat day)
AND FINALLY
If you value your health and find the right balance in your life, it will provide a harmonious backdrop to everything you do in your business. Not only does it remove obstacles and stress from your day, but it will actually open doors that you never saw before.
After all, who wouldn’t want to be healthy, wealthy and wise?
Until next week.
R