What you are most passionate about? High performing entrepreneurs are passionate about their business. Most are passionate about their life, relationships, and families. What often gets squeezed out in the middle is themselves.
If you want to spend 80% of your time and energy on your business, there is only 20% left for yourself and the rest of your life. I encourage you to be conscious of the decisions you are making about where you spend your time and energy, making sure that there is some time to energize yourself and your life.
Taking Time Off
I meet entrepreneurs who brag that they only take two weeks off a year. For most, this is a sign that they are not prioritizing looking after themselves. They are also setting an example that it’s not okay to take time off. My belief is that if you want high performing employees, you should be giving them 3-4 weeks a year of time off and making sure that they take that time away from work. When they return, they will have more energy, perspective, and resiliency.
Sailing
For more than forty years, sailing has been one of the best ways for me to look after myself. Not only does it get me away from the business, the lack of cellular coverage and poor wifi at most marinas means that I am forced to disconnect from our ever increasingly connected world. Getting away from the constant interruptions our smart phones enable, is critical for me to recharge and look after myself.
Massive Family Values
Being with and spending time with my family is one of my most important values. I went sailing this month and my wife Karalee and I took our Grandson Diego out sailing for the first time. Our daughter Jocelyn has grown up around sailboats, but for her husband and Diego this was a special time to introduce them to some of our favourite anchorages and activities while sailing.
Saying Yes to Yourself
When I was President of Robelle, working 50-60 hours a week, I still took at least four weeks off a year. Sometimes more. A significant portion of that time off would be sailing. With all the COVID-19 travel and local restrictions, I almost didn’t go sailing this year. I was telling myself too many stories of why I shouldn’t go sailing for two weeks or why it was too hard to arrange, rather than focusing on what I know would be great for building my resiliency and looking after myself. Thankfully, I realized this was poor thinking and arranged for two weeks sailing with lots of family time.
If you struggle to schedule time to look after yourself and your life, I can help. Just book a book a free one-hour coaching call with me.
