Do You Work Like an Athlete in Business? ❓

Sports science has shown that for high performance, you need to oscillate between two key activities to maximize your energy and productivity:

• 🏃‍♂️ Energy Expenditure | Movement
• 🧘‍♀️ Energy Renewal | Recovery

I can personally attest to this as I rarely work more than 1-2 hours on one task and incorporate workouts and recovery periods throughout my day. Without the physical or mental capacity to perform, the time you invest can sometimes provide diminishing returns 📉.

The Role of Stress in Growth

Did you know, stress is actually a stimulus for growth? Think about your days as an athlete—you spend a lot of time training, recovering, practicing, studying, working on skills, team building, etc., versus actually competing. In business, we are always competing!

👉 I love the saying: "The Most Competitive Sport You'll Ever Play Is Business."

The Athlete's Mindset in Business

I have written on this multiple times, and I am a huge advocate of athletes in business. I believe the athletic mindset and discipline translate well for entrepreneurs and other high performers. Athletes are trained to push through barriers, set goals, and maintain discipline, which are essential qualities for success in the business world. Here are some ideas and recommendations for optimizing your day:

• Wake up early, start with your mind, no phone: Begin your day with a clear mind by avoiding digital distractions. This can help set a positive tone for the rest of the day.
• Don't take calls/meetings before 10 AM: Use the early hours for deep work and strategic planning. This time is often when your mind is most alert and creative.
• Exercise daily to maximize your energy: Physical activity boosts your energy levels, improves mood, and enhances cognitive function. Whether it's a morning run or a lunchtime gym session, make exercise a non-negotiable part of your routine.
• Self-educate for at least 30 minutes a day: Continuous learning is crucial for staying ahead in business. Read industry articles, books, or take online courses to keep expanding your knowledge.
• Take breaks when you're tired, naps are OK!: Short breaks throughout the day can help maintain your productivity and prevent burnout. A quick nap can recharge your brain and improve performance.
• Try fitness micro-dosing throughout the day: Incorporate short bursts of physical activity into your daily routine. This can be as simple as a five-minute stretch or a quick walk.
• Get to know your body from gut to DNA: Understanding your body's needs can optimize your health and performance. Pay attention to nutrition, hydration, and any specific health requirements.
• Explore various recovery methods and practice them daily: From meditation to massage, find what helps you recover best and integrate it into your routine.
• Get outside during the day for nature exposure: Spending time outdoors can reduce stress and improve mental well-being. Take your breaks outside or work in a space with natural light.
• Prioritize sleep as it is the foundation of your day: Quality sleep is critical for physical and mental recovery. Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and maintain a consistent sleep schedule.

Partnering for Success

Often, when I partner or work with a company or entrepreneur, I don't start with the business problem or objective. Instead, I first ensure the person is maximizing their day and life, and then proceed from there. This holistic approach helps in creating sustainable business strategies and fostering personal growth.

Studies have shown that a fitness-oriented founder or CEO's company is worth 10% more. This statistic underscores the importance of integrating fitness and wellness into your daily routine. I'd bet if you looked deeper into these individuals, you'd find similarities in how they live their lives and work in their businesses. For instance, successful entrepreneurs like Richard Branson and Mark Cuban have often spoken about the importance of maintaining a fitness regimen.