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Tag: Health & Wellness

  • The Most Important Shift Hybrid Workforces Need to Thrive Is the One Most Are Ignoring | Entrepreneur

    The Most Important Shift Hybrid Workforces Need to Thrive Is the One Most Are Ignoring | Entrepreneur

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    By the end of this year, 39% of all global knowledge workers will be hybrid workers.

    That’s a forecast from Gartner, and it’s more than just a statistic; it’s a harbinger of a seismic shift in our work culture.

    Some business leaders may mistake this trend as a partial return to “the way it was.” But that is shortsighted. The hybrid model isn’t just “old office life” for half the week, and it also isn’t a free-form, work-from-home life for half the week. To embrace the hybrid work model means reimagining the very fabric of our work environment. The pandemic taught us that work is not a place you go; it’s something you do — so the office must now serve as a hub for collaboration and innovation, not a factory for rote tasks.

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    Dr. Gleb Tsipursky

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  • 5 Bad Habits Of High-Achieving Entrepreneurs | Entrepreneur

    5 Bad Habits Of High-Achieving Entrepreneurs | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    You might be surprised at the high percentage of high-achieving entrepreneurs, whose unique combination of traits or habits that accelerate their success early on, later find these same traits eventually become what hold them back.

    They’re often the source of chronic stress, overwhelm, burnout and plateaued revenues.

    So, while this combination of seemingly beneficial traits generally means you’re intelligent, driven, ambitious, hard-working, have a high work ethic and a high tolerance for stress, it may also mean you’re:

    • Often feeling overworked and undervalued

    • Constantly under pressure to deliver in tight deadlines

    • Regularly on the edge of burnout

    • Constantly stressed and overwhelmed

    • Surrounded by people who disappoint you and don’t meet your expectations

    • Apprehensive about more responsibility because you’re barely coping as is

    So, while go-go-go may get you ahead in the beginning, there are dangerous consequences if you don’t get your habits in check early on. Stay there too long, and it will bleed into your relationships, health and personal life.

    Here are five common harmful habit addictions we’ve observed in high-achieving entrepreneurs:

    Related: 18 Destructive Habits Holding You Back From Success

    1. The human doing

    This behavior presents when you only feel “worthy” or like “enough” when you’re being productive, useful or valuable. If you’re not busy (over)achieving, you feel lazy, worthless or like you’re wasting time. You’re addicted to being busy and incapable of switching off — ever. This can impair recovery, creativity, problem-solving and long-term resilience.

    2. Completion addiction

    You never give yourself permission to be fully present, in the moment, at peace or in harmony with life — until ALL to-do lists are complete, all unfinished business is finished, all problems are solved and all unanswered questions are answered. You can’t stop thinking about a topic or project until you have closure, it’s signed off, over and done!

    You’re desperate for the feeling of completion, which never comes, so you rush through your day, never taking time to stop, recover or be present. This is particularly problematic for long-term projects.

    3. Over-attention to detail

    Perfectionism is the antithesis of high performance. It’s an impossible standard and often stems from being afraid to make a mistake or look like a fool.

    You always look for what’s wrong or not good enough, and you always find something. Nothing you do ever feels good enough, tasks take 10x longer than they need to, or you often don’t even get started because you feel overwhelmed.

    Related: Perfection Is a Trap, and It’s Keeping You From Being Successful

    4. Overthinking and overanalyzing

    This habit is also driven by the fear of being judged or criticized, as well as the fear of failure. Now you have an endless list of “What ifs.” You “need” certainty and predictability, which simply doesn’t exist. You need to know what’s going to happen, when and how — before it even happens!

    This trait is often combined with control issues, where you need to control everything and everyone in order to feel safe and secure. Even if you’re not doing it overtly — because you’re afraid people might think you’re controlling — you’re trying to predict and control covertly. Either way, it’s exhausting.

    5. People pleasing

    The final high-achieving trait we see often is when you’re constantly saying “yes,” but you wish you could say “no.” You don’t have clarity on your boundaries. Even if you did, you’re constantly violating them and your standards to avoid upsetting people, as well as your fear of being judged or criticized again. You struggle to say “no” without massive guilt and without ruminating over previous experiences.

    These bad habits lead high-achievers to obsess over the minutia. You constantly feel the need to prove yourself or justify your position. You regularly get stuck in your head, ruminating and worrying, trying to make everything perfect.

    When you have a high tolerance for pain and stress — which you do because that’s part of every business owner’s DNA — you can achieve a lot in your career … BECAUSE of these traits. But they can only get you so far.

    After a certain threshold, the workload, stress and overwhelm become too much, and you max out. What got you here won’t get you there. It’s time to be as successful personally as you are professionally.

    You’ll never break through your glass ceiling if you stay addicted to these habits and the old identity that drives them.

    Related: 10 Bad Habits Entrepreneurs Must Give Up To Be Successful

    How to break harmful high-achieving habits

    We all have blind spots that prevent us from seeing the forest for the trees. And two big influences on how you view your world are:

    1. Your relationship with yourself

    Stop making self-worth conditional. You wouldn’t accept your child based on passing an exam or tidying up their room, so why do we make our own self-worth conditional on looking a certain way, earning $X amount or achieving something big?

    Most high-achievers react when they hear this and think, “If I do that, I’ll lower my standards, become complacent or drop the ball,” which is a false assumption.

    The foundation of self-acceptance means you can chase the right things for the right reasons. You can still be ambitious, but this time, it’s about results — not about feeling good enough or proving yourself.

    2. Your relationship with the future

    Life is uncertain! We never know what’s going to happen next. But we humans have a built-in need for certainty — and there lies the problem.

    We want to know what, when and how “it’s” going to happen, which is futile and exhausting. Forward planning is important, but not overplanning. When people have poor relationships with uncertainty, they tend to have control issues, completion addiction and chronic worry.

    So, stop trying to control the uncontrollable. Understand (and accept) that the answer to every question about the future is still, “I don’t know.”

    By putting these two influential foundations in place, the five bad habits of high-achieving entrepreneurs naturally dissolve — by themselves!

    You’ll no longer be in a fight against yourself, and your natural strengths become enhanced. Your previously harmful habits have now created space for healthy, high-achieving habits to take their place.

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    Rachel Godfrey

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  • Stingy Paid Holidays Exacerbate U.S. Work-Life Imbalance | Entrepreneur

    Stingy Paid Holidays Exacerbate U.S. Work-Life Imbalance | Entrepreneur

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    The U.S. comes in second on the list of 10 countries offering the least amount of paid vacation time, according to a report from career-resource platform Resume.io. In the private sector, American employees receive 10 days of PTO on average, not including holidays and sick days — a shockingly low number compared to those in other developed nations.

    In many countries around the world, particularly those in Europe, it’s not uncommon for employees to take vacations for months at a time, in many cases due to the European Union Working Time Directive, which requires a minimum of 20 working days of paid vacation in all EU countries, CNBC reported.

    Related: How to Determine Your PTO Policy

    “In the U.S., it is estimated that less than 50% of workers who get paid vacation time use their full allotment each year.”

    “[The disparity] has largely been driven by American business resisting any kind of mandate to provide paid time off for workers,” Joe Mull, a 20-year HR veteran and author of the new book Employalty: How to Ignite Commitment and Keep Top Talent in the New Age of Work, tells Entrepreneur. “For more than 100 years, all proposed national laws guaranteeing paid leave to workers have failed to pass. In nearly every other developed nation on earth, workers are guaranteed paid time off.”

    Thanksgiving is around the corner in the U.S., and although 39% of private industry workers nationwide will have the day off, most of them aren’t grateful for the stingy vacation policies their employers subject them to year-round. And even those lucky enough to have more PTO at their disposal are tired of being unable to use it.

    Related: These Are the 10 Countries With the Least Paid Vacation — and Where the U.S. Ranks Might Surprise You

    “In the U.S., it is estimated that less than 50% of workers who get paid vacation time use their full allotment each year,” Mull says. “The most common reason given for not taking vacation time is fear of falling behind at work.” And many other workers feel they must reserve paid vacation time for when “life happens,” including issues surrounding childcare and elder care, sickness, transportation and more, he adds.

    “A functioning society with optimal mental health requires periods of rest and restoration.”

    What’s at stake if the U.S. doesn’t catch up? According to Mull, a lot: American employers can expect continuing high levels of burnout (77% of U.S. professionals have experienced burnout at their current job, per a Deloitte survey) and will struggle to attract and retain top talent.

    “Much of the turmoil in the labor market in recent years has been driven by employees changing jobs in pursuit of better quality of life,” Mull says. “So the business case here is that employers reduce employee churn and deliver better products and services to customers when they have a full complement of healthy, engaged employees.”

    Related: 3 Truths About Unlimited PTO — Why Employees Are Worse Off With Endless Vacation Days

    But there’s an even bigger issue at play, Mull warns: “A functioning society with optimal mental health requires periods of rest and restoration, and our current culture around work and paid time off doesn’t support this.”

    “It’s a symptom of several larger issues related to rising workloads, childcare deficiencies and more.”

    Mull compares the plight of U.S. workers to an engine that’s been racing at maximum RPMs for long periods of time — “eventually, it gives out.” That’s why time away from work, and the restoration it provides, actually makes for more productive employees and better work outcomes, he says.

    “What’s important to note here is that it’s not just about offering more vacation time,” Mull adds. “Employers must create the conditions that allow employees to actually use it. In many ways, the rate at which we take vacation time isn’t the problem — it’s a symptom of several larger issues related to rising workloads, childcare deficiencies and more.”

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    Amanda Breen

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  • From Stage to Startup: Ballet Pro’s Lucrative Side Hustle | Entrepreneur

    From Stage to Startup: Ballet Pro’s Lucrative Side Hustle | Entrepreneur

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    This Side Hustle Spotlight Q&A features Danielle Schultz, a ballet dancer at the Metropolitan Opera and founder of The Triangle Sessions, a corporate wellness company offering company retreats, interactive wellness classes and team-building events. She is based in the Greater Philadelphia Area.

    Image Credit: Devin Cruz.

    You’d been a dancer with the Metropolitan Opera since 2014 when Covid hit. How did your life and work change in those early days of the pandemic, and when did you know it was time to supplement your income with a side hustle?

    When Covid hit, I was in the middle of Die Fliegende Hollander and was slated to perform in Turandot a few weeks later. I had nurtured positions teaching fitness and ballet at New York City studios, which I continued via Zoom to stay financially afloat. However, I was also three months pregnant, and my husband was a full-time student. I had to get creative quickly. One of the first social impacts of Covid that everyone struggled with was isolation. It gave me the idea to start offering corporate wellness and team events to help employees stay connected in the newly virtual workplace.

    Related: Being an Entrepreneur Means Finding Profit in Your Passion

    How did your professional background inspire you to launch The Triangle Sessions? How did that skill set translate to your entrepreneurial journey?

    I graduated in 2009 from NYU Tisch with a dance degree and a minor in art history. It was a terrible time to graduate, especially with an arts degree. I turned down an apprenticeship with a small ballet company to perform as a dancer on a cruise ship and travel the world. Believe it or not, this was simply the more practical approach at the time. I was able to give up my New York City apartment, live expense-free and save money. This experience served as a crash course in travel and tourism, something that would come into play 10 years later when organizing a large-scale retreat for a national law firm.

    After my cruise ship contract, I danced with a small contemporary company while waiting tables at high-end restaurants. It was the New York City restaurant scene that provided excellent training in wine, spirits and food pairings. Like the cruise ship, I learned the value of customer service and how to connect with a wide variety of people. Waiting tables still goes down as the hardest job I’ve ever had, but it was too physically demanding while dancing.

    Related: Shift Your Perspective From Getting to Giving to Get Unstuck

    When I got my break at the Metropolitan Opera, a dream job for years, there was a catch…it still wasn’t full-time. So, I had to supplement my income in a way that would be easier on my body. I became a certified yoga teacher, certified nutrition counselor and Ballet Beautiful trainer for celebrity clients. All of these skills allowed me to share a deeper understanding of the human body with a wide range of people. It set me up beautifully for teaching corporate wellness.

    For years, I continued to perform at the Metropolitan Opera while juggling a slew of part-time work. It wasn’t until my aunt, a former ballroom champion and long-time business owner, told me something that I’ll never forget: “Dani, you already have the mentality of an entrepreneur in the way you support yourself. You have multiple income streams. Figure out how to work for yourself, not other people, so that you can share your knowledge on your own terms.” It was a lightbulb moment that got the wheels turning. It took a pandemic and a layoff from the Met Opera to pursue the endeavor full-time.

    What was your vision for The Triangle Sessions, and what were some of the first steps you took to get it off the ground?

    I wanted to implement the knowledge I developed in my professional dance career around healthy habits and performing at one’s best. I wanted to replicate the camaraderie I had experienced in the dance world through high-quality, purpose-driven experiences and apply it to the corporate world.

    When Covid first hit, I offered virtual wellness classes….yoga, meditation, desk stretching, etc., always with some type of social component. No one was interested. People just wanted alcohol and happy hours. I started incorporating educational wine and sake tastings WITH corporate wellness, and suddenly, there was interest! I found a fantastic vendor to help put together high-quality experience kits (and accommodate some of my wacky requests, like combining foam rollers with bottles of Prosecco and gourmet snacks), and I hit the ground running.

    Related: Side Hustles for These Times

    How did you approach continuing to build, and what does your revenue look like?

    Initially, the vast majority of business came from my own network, referrals and word-of-mouth. After some time hosting virtual team-building and wellness events, I became a small fish in a large pond. So, I partnered (and still continue to partner) with larger team-building event companies in which my services are offered. They have a dedicated sales team, and it provides steady revenue, all while nurturing my own clients and relationships. Annual revenue for 2022 was $110,000.

    What were some of the biggest challenges along the way, and how did you navigate those?

    The biggest challenge is trying to anticipate the needs of organizations and their employees without straying too far from our own mission. Employee well-being and community are at the backbone of The Triangle Sessions. I keep an open mind and experiment to see where there’s interest. In 2020, happy hours were in vogue. This last year it’s been all about wellness and creativity. Luckily, I enjoy this process and love having an open dialogue with clients to learn about their needs. Many of our signature events, like our Build-A-Terrarium workshop, which combines plant care with self-care, have been inspired by client requests.

    Personally, I’ve struggled to find the balance between running The Triangle Sessions and wanting to continue to dance. Dance is my first love, my identity since I was three years old. I returned to the Met Opera part-time in 2021 and scaled back on the number of productions I usually perform to focus on building The Triangle Sessions. However, keeping my foot in the door at the Met sometimes leads to losing momentum. It’s a risk I’m willing to take for now since I have the best of both worlds. Martha Graham once said, “A dancer dies twice—once when they stop dancing, and this first death is the more painful.” These words ring true, but I’m grateful to be building another satisfying career around community, connectivity and high-quality performance.

    Related: These High School Best Friends Achieved Their Dream of Being Their Own Bosses. Their Next Step? Starting a Wellness Revolution.

    Do you have any advice for other professionals who want to start a side hustle or full-time business?

    Lean into your strengths. Learn your core values. Reflect on what makes you different. From there, assess how these skills can benefit others and bring out the best in communities. It may take a bit of experimentation and creativity, but the process can be surprisingly satisfying. Sometimes, you just need to start somewhere and see what happens. Celebrate the small wins and run (or dance!) at your own pace.

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    Amanda Breen

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  • Boost Employee Success with These 3 Proven Strategies | Entrepreneur

    Boost Employee Success with These 3 Proven Strategies | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    This story originally appeared on Under30CEO.com

    When your employees experience success, your company experiences success. This makes it imperative for you to help your workers so they can succeed. However, you can’t relegate your support to their professional lives but their personal ones as well. That way, they’ll be more poised to apply themselves when they’re working — and that’s good for them and for your business.

    Employees who are unencumbered by burdens and stress have more time and energy to devote to their occupations. They can dive into projects and harness the creativity and problem-solving so necessary for innovation. This encourages them to find meaning in their output. As a recent Paychex survey showed, having meaningful work is a key reason many people stay with their employers. Workers who are succeeding are, therefore, not just more likely to share their talents but are apt to stick around. That’s good for any company, especially on the heels of the Great Resignation.

    Related: Are You Taking Care of Your Employee’s Mental Health?

    How do you set the stage to boost your workers’ success? Aside from being respectful and offering fair compensation, try these strategies.

    1. Provide mental health and well-being support.

    Research from Pathways indicates that mood disorders like depression will affect one out of six American adults. Like any condition, depression doesn’t just affect a person’s home life. It affects everything they do, including their career. Yet, it can be difficult for employees who are suffering to feel comfortable or confident starting a treatment plan or even rehab. What they need is a psychologically safe workplace environment that gives them room to improve their mental health.

    If you haven’t done so already, revisit your benefits package. See if there is a mental health component. For example, you may want to ensure your health insurance options include mental health coverage. Additionally, make certain your managers are watchful for signs of burnout and depression in their direct reports. These signs can include difficulty concentrating, anger, or any unusual, uncharacteristic behaviors, according to Pathways.

    Of course, not all employees who are irritable are dealing with depression. Nevertheless, those who are struggling may be more willing to get treated if their supervisors facilitate genuinely caring conversations. And without the cloud of depression and mental illness, they can better hone their talents and show off their skills.

    2. Remove your employees’ nagging obstacles and friction points.

    It’s impossible to be successful when employees aren’t given the right tools or resources. For instance, if you expect your people to optimize their workflows, you’ll need to invest in more tech. Similarly, you may have to be flexible in letting team members have autonomy in terms of their working arrangements. This can include allowing remote-capable employees to work from home or another location at least some of the time.

    Currently, around half of the organizations with remote-capable workers are operating in a hybrid fashion per Gallup. Not only is this strategy working, but it’s allowing employees to better structure their days. The result has been a surge in self-reported productivity levels. More productivity naturally leads to more on-the-job success.

    Related: Out-Talent the Competition With 7 Tips to Help Your Employees Self-Actualize

    Not sure what roadblocks could be holding back your workers? Ask them. They’ll be able to tell you where their biggest friction points are. With that knowledge, you can make changes to address those pains and give them the freedom to move ahead faster.

    3. Offer constant, relevant upskilling and retraining opportunities.

    A full 68% of workers surveyed by the University of Phoenix said they’d stay for the long haul with an employer that upskilled them. Why, then, aren’t more companies offering professional development? The answer is that many are, but their training may be lacking the relevance and depth that it needs to have to make a lasting difference. A good example of this would be one-and-done training on a new software program. Some people might find the training interesting but not pertinent. Consequently, though they technically were trained, they weren’t trained on something fitting for their positions.

    Ideally, each worker should be able to engage in personalized upskilling that leverages core strengths, aptitudes, and future goals. Again, this is where some employee feedback and surveys can be invaluable. These vehicles can show what kinds of training are “nice to have” and which are “need to have.” After every employee training experience, managers can serve in mentoring roles to guide their direct reports from milestone to milestone. In time, this process will improve not just workers’ abilities but their confidence.

    Remember, though, that training doesn’t always have to be formal to have a serious impact. Professional development can take place informally. Let’s say you have a budding sales leader who needs more exposure to the broader sales field. You might want to send her to an annual industry convention. That way, she can get more knowledge as well as network with peers. More exposure to experts in her desired career path can help her achieve her occupational objectives.

    Related: Motivation is the Secret to a Successful Team — Are Your Employees Motivated? 4 Tips for Empowering New Hires

    Your employees want to feel like they’re doing their best. Now is the chance for you to make it easier for them to be as successful as possible. To start, you have to put some measures in place to serve as springboards so they can rev up their acumen and accomplishments.

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    Kimberly Zhang

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  • Why Successful People Engage in These 7 Types of Hobbies | Entrepreneur

    Why Successful People Engage in These 7 Types of Hobbies | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Not all hobbies are created equal. Over the last decade, I’ve obsessively studied success (and what successful people do) by reading a book/month on the topic, researching it (so I could write my own books on it) and being mentored by both CEOs and executive coaches. I’ve found nearly all successful people are intentional and deliberate about how they spend their time. When it comes to their hobbies, watching television or reading tabloids doesn’t rank high. Here’s what does.

    Related: Every Entrepreneur Needs a Hobby Separate From the Company — Here’s Why

    1. Creation, not consumption

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    Amy M Chambers

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  • What Does Entrepreneurial Excellence Mean Today? The Benchmark for Success Is Evolving — Here’s How. | Entrepreneur

    What Does Entrepreneurial Excellence Mean Today? The Benchmark for Success Is Evolving — Here’s How. | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    From Ford to Musk, the image of the successful entrepreneur has often been intertwined with a set of traditional ideals: unyielding confidence, unwavering determination and an unrelenting pursuit of success. Those characteristics of excellence have shaped our perception of what it means to be a successful entrepreneur for generations. They also connect with larger social and political ideas of greatness: winning through domination in some form.

    However, a generational shift in the definition of excellence is becoming all too apparent as the once-unquestionable benchmarks of success, such as wealth, fame and power, have begun to coexist with qualities that transcend the headlines — qualities like personal growth, empathy and a commitment to lasting values. Additionally, an increasing number of successful female entrepreneurs are also calling into question masculine gatekeeping of definitions of entrepreneurial excellence. Numerous social pressures, along with rapid technological change, are causing many of us to contemplate what it actually means to pursue “excellence” or “greatness” today.

    Somewhere on the other side of Elon and Zuckerberg’s proposed MMA fight is another view of what being great can be for an entrepreneur. A more encompassing view of excellence may be necessary, one which redefines not only the characteristics of greatness but also the obligations and behaviors of those we deem role models within the world of business. Excellence is no longer solely about conquering frontiers or amassing fortunes; it’s about leaving a positive mark on the world, fostering innovation with ethics, and making decisions that resonate through generations. That excellence can be achieved by adding elements of stoicism and empathy to our entrepreneurial mindsets and leadership approaches.

    Related: How to Unleash Your Entrepreneurial Spirit and Discover Your Potential

    The biography of excellence

    The historical record provides as many definitions of excellence as it does role models to learn from. Different eras have birthed distinct ideals of greatness, often mirroring the predominant societal norms and values. In the Renaissance, excellence was defined by creativity; in the Enlightenment, it was rationality. Excellence in political leadership was defined in many eras as the ability to win wars and defeat foes. Yet even some of the greatest warriors held up as role models of excellence, such as Leonidas’s Spartans at Thermopylae or Saigō Takamori’s Samurai at the Battle of Shiroyama, proved their merit through their defeat by holding fast to their values in the face of certain loss. Excellence, it seems, becomes a complex issue when one combines the morality of strong values with societal markers like wealth, fame, power or might.

    The realm of entrepreneurialism, especially the tech field, has yielded its own vision of excellence. Innovation, creativity, self-discipline and drive are elevated, and entrepreneurs strive to emulate in the hopes of capturing their magic in a bottle. While their accomplishments are undeniable, the criteria by which we measure excellence are evolving, inviting us to reassess the values that truly define greatness. And while many great entrepreneurs stand out as examples of excellence, none better exemplify the increasingly problematic double-edged sword of entrepreneurial excellence than Elon Musk or Steve Jobs.

    As Walter Isaacson’s biography of Elon Musk hits our shelves, it’s an interesting moment to reflect on the nature of excellence as entrepreneurs and beyond — though, for many of us, the question of excellence has long been on our minds. Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur behind Tesla and SpaceX, epitomizes the charismatic and audacious archetype of excellence. His boldness and willingness to disrupt industries have yielded transformative results, yet his leadership style is marked by demanding expectations, public spats, and a sometimes controversial presence on social media.

    Biographer Isaacson — already skilled at getting to the core of powerhouse egos in his earlier works on Benjamin Franklin, Albert Einstein, Leonardo da Vinci, Henry Kissinger and Steve Jobs — paints Elon Musk as a complex character, at times relatable and at times almost alien in mindset. Similarly, each of Isaacson’s subjects represented ideas of excellence for their times — and beyond — yet each also struggled with a titanic-sized ego and disjointed relationships. Elon seems no different. Excellence, too often, it appears, comes at a steep social price.

    Many may liken Musk to Steve Jobs, another tech leader held up as an example of entrepreneurial and technological excellence. Jobs, the late co-founder of Apple, responsible for much of the company’s product vision and innovation, is celebrated for revolutionizing personal technology. But his inability to relate to others was as legendary as his vision. His “reality distortion field” and uncompromising pursuit of perfection yielded groundbreaking products, but his interpersonal relationships and management methods were often called into question. Jobs is an extreme personality and example, but often excellence is equated with such extreme focus and vision.

    A kinder approach to excellence

    While the achievements of Jobs and Musk are undeniable, the emphasis on such figures as entrepreneurial role models perpetuates an image of excellence defined by brashness, bombastic and all-consuming individualism. But as younger generations search for relevant role models of greatness, they seek to redefine how the trait manifests in society. Excellence in this context is not confined to the individual’s achievements but also extends to their contributions to the greater good. Leaders who recognize the strength of collaboration, who consider the impact of their decisions on diverse communities, and who work to bridge societal divides exemplify a new facet of excellence.

    Embracing kindness and empathy in leadership fosters collaboration, creativity and sustainable growth in organizations. A leader prioritizing these qualities can inspire loyalty and dedication among employees, creating a more harmonious and productive work environment. Additionally, exercising restraint and thoughtfulness in decision-making prevents hasty actions that might bring short-term gains but lead to detrimental long-term consequences.

    The challenge lies in finding a balance between audacity and empathy, innovation and collaboration. While figures like Musk and Jobs have undeniably left their marks on history, it’s worth considering whether their methods could have been refined to include a greater emphasis on building positive relationships and nurturing well-being. Even keel business leaders like Tim Cook or Dara Khosrowshahi will likely never be held up as examples of generational-changing technological or entrepreneurial excellence, even though they may be more worthy of the accolade than their more bombastic peers.

    In his 2010 Commencement Speech at Princeton, Jeff Bezos recounted some wisdom he learned from his grandfather: “Jeff, one day you’ll understand that it’s harder to be kind than clever.” Indeed, it is far easier to take the low road, forgetting compassion or patience. Can excellence be achieved without overshadowing qualities like kindness, empathy and restraint? Long before we had the concept of personal brands. Mr. Rogers built a persona around the transformative nature of kindness and empathy. With numerous tall tales of kindness on set coupled with extensive anonymous donations to children’s cancer charities, many would consider Keanu Reeves to be a role model of quiet kindness in a Hollywood marked by greed, vanity, and self-promotion. Just as the media industry has managed to elevate some paragons of kindness, so too can the entrepreneurial field embrace those who translate kindness into excellence.

    Related: These 3 Philosophies of the Ancient Stoics Will Change Your Life

    Stoicism over pomp

    Another approach to the question of greatness requires us to stop and think about, yes, the Roman Empire — just maybe not every day as some men do, according to the consensus of a hilarious new TikTok trend. The reason why I suggest that we consider the Roman Empire in pursuit of greatness is that many Roman Emporers embraced stoicism — a philosophy underlying entrepreneurial excellence. At its core, stoicism advocates for a rational and disciplined approach to life’s challenges. It emphasizes the cultivation of inner resilience and the acceptance of circumstances beyond one’s control, encouraging a mindset of gratitude rather than negativity.

    Stoics believe in focusing on what can be influenced while gracefully acknowledging and enduring what cannot. This philosophy encourages entrepreneurs to navigate the often tumultuous waters of business with a composed and clear-headed demeanor. By embracing stoic principles, entrepreneurs gain a powerful tool for maintaining equilibrium in the face of adversity, allowing them to make calculated decisions and pursue their goals with unwavering determination.

    It is easy to find examples of stoic leadership: those driven by a belief that they can rationally advance their values to improve the world. For example, Former Chancellor of Germany Angela Merkel’s legacy lies in her adept navigation of complex political terrains while upholding her principles, particularly in her fervent support for a united Europe. Her leadership exemplified the potency of diplomacy, restraint and patient persistence, highlighting that enduring change often stems from steadfast dedication rather than impulsive, headline-grabbing maneuvers.

    In the realm of tech entrepreneurship, Steve Wozniak’s journey reflects the value of staying grounded even in the face of immense success. His technical prowess and innovation were pivotal in shaping the technological landscape, yet he remained approachable and down-to-earth. Wozniak’s commitment to education and his willingness to share his knowledge exemplifies the importance of giving back to the community that helped foster his success. Like Merkel, Wozniak has prioritized collaboration over grabbing headlines, building bridges rather than burning them.

    And, on a final note, if we ever need to look to the Roman Empire to teach us a lesson about greatness, surely it is this: the political leader held up by many through history as the pinnacle of political excellence was a bold and audacious general and emperor who was such a jerk that his friends and colleagues stabbed him to death. Julius Caesar may argue that a little less ego and a bit more kindness and stoicism are a sounder approach to leadership.

    Final thoughts

    In examining these contrasting examples, we can distill lessons that guide future leaders and innovators. By appreciating the achievements of ego-driven innovators like Musk and Jobs while critically evaluating the potential consequences of their approaches, we pave the way for a new generation of leaders who aspire to achieve greatness while also cultivating qualities that enrich the human experience. Not only should we seek out role models of excellence driven by compassion and empathy, but we should seek to lead our own organizations with the same stoic and caring attitude, fostering excellence in ourselves and those we lead.

    Ultimately, excellence should not be narrowly defined by the disruption of industries alone; rather, it should encompass the enhancement of society as a whole, with kindness, empathy and restraint being integral components of that journey. Kindness and stoicism offer new approaches to modern entrepreneurial excellence.

    The narrative of excellence is being rewritten to include leaders who strive not just for personal greatness but also for the betterment of humanity. The unassuming acts of kindness, the quiet moments of empathy, and the decisions rooted in restraint are forging a new path for the concept of excellence. This evolution challenges us to evaluate the qualities that truly define greatness and to acknowledge that true excellence is as much about how we treat others as it is about what we achieve.

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    Milan Kordestani

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  • Lululemon Founder Chip Wilson Invests $100M on Rare Disease Cure | Entrepreneur

    Lululemon Founder Chip Wilson Invests $100M on Rare Disease Cure | Entrepreneur

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    This article originally appeared on Business Insider.

    Chip Wilson, the founder of Lululemon, has been living with a rare muscular disease for the past several decades, and he’s funneling $100 million of his multibillion-dollar net worth into finding a cure.

    Wilson was given the diagnosis of facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy, or FSHD, in 1987 when he was 32 years old, Bloomberg reported. The disease causes the progressive loss of skeletal muscle and affects a little under 900,000 people worldwide, according to FSHD Society. Wilson has an even less common form named FSHD2 that affects just 5% of those with the disease, Bloomberg noted. In other words, he’s one of about 43,000 people with FSHD2.

    For years after the diagnosis, Bloomberg reported, Wilson maintained a pretty active lifestyle. But he told the outlet he had a “wake-up call” decades later when he was signing a deal with China’s biggest athletic-apparel maker, Anta Sports Products, to buy a stake in the Finnish sports company Amer Sports and found himself struggling to walk.

    By 2022, he had launched a venture philanthropy fund named Solve FSHD, which aims to develop a cure for the disease by 2027, according to its website. Solve is particularly focused on finding new therapies for FSHD2 and has so far deployed close to $31 million into biotech companies working on various interventions, its website says.

    Wilson seems to believe that ultrawealthy entrepreneurs can be powerful catalysts for medical innovation because they have the funds to attract talent and take a more results-driven mindset to research than charitable or government organizations. He told Bloomberg that capitalism had “created everything good in the world.”

    Bloomberg reported that in the meantime, Wilson was also resorting to experimental procedures and testing several longevity and wellness treatments. He was undergoing electroacupuncture; going for IV drips of NAD, which is an enzyme that plays a critical role in healthy cell function; taking weekly doses of the immunosuppressive drug rapamycin; and taking daily doses of testosterone, the outlet reported.

    Solve FSHD did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Insider.

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    Lakshmi Varanasi

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  • How to Know When to Persist, Pivot or Give Up and Pack it In | Entrepreneur

    How to Know When to Persist, Pivot or Give Up and Pack it In | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    This isn’t your standard “persevere and conquer” pep talk. You’ve heard it all — ‘Push through, never give up, you can achieve anything if you set your mind to it.’ Sure, resilience is crucial, but let’s be real: That advice starts to ring hollow when you’re up against wall after wall and you experience rejection after rejection.

    At some point, you’re left wondering if the struggle is even worth it. Most articles don’t tell you that resilience isn’t just about bull-headed tenacity; it’s also about discernment – understanding that there’s a fine line between tenacity and futility. The wisdom lies in knowing when to dig in your heels and when it’s smarter to pivot. Often, a “no” is not a stop sign — it’s a detour sign that says, “Adjust course.”

    Related: Why Saying ‘No’ Can Actually Help Your Business or Startup

    The case of the unwavering pursuit

    In the mid-90s, my young and struggling advertising agency grappled with the constant challenges of an upstart company, such as personnel, cash flow and client acquisition. We were small but ambitious, armed with a unique approach for helping large companies market and sell their products to consumers through resellers, such as dealers or retail outlets.

    Undeterred by our size and confident in our approach, we had our sights set on the big, national players. One of those big players on my radar was Troy-Bilt. For two relentless years, I pursued them with the confidence that we had a unique marketing solution they couldn’t afford to ignore

    Given that they were just a two-hour drive away in Albany, NY, I took the liberty of making several unscheduled visits. To say the reception was lukewarm would be generous. At one point, I flat-out asked their V.P. of Marketing if I was becoming a nuisance and should just go away. His answer never wavered: “No need to leave; always good to talk, but we’ve got nothing for you.” Then, two years into this dance, the phone rang. It was them. “Scott, we’re ready to give you a shot.” That shot transformed into a multi-million-dollar annual program that sustained for several years.

    Related: 5 Ways to Master the Persistence That Makes a Great Entrepreneur

    The psychology of ‘No’: Your mindset dictates your response

    Rejection is far more than a bruise to your ego — it tests your emotional intelligence and resilience. Often, what hurts us most is not the rejection itself but our emotional response to it. We ruminate, second-guess and eventually let that “no” settle into our mindset as a prohibitive obstacle. But if we can shift our perception and see rejection not as a blockade but as feedback, we turn the tables.

    Mindset matters. A resilient mindset interprets a “no” as a “not yet” or “not this way.” It’s an invitation to revisit your strategy, adapt, change course and charge forward. Your next victory is as much about your mental calibration as it is about the external opportunity.

    Related: Never Underestimate the Power of Adversity: How Hardship Builds Resilience

    When to push forward and when to pivot

    Ah, the million-dollar question: When is a “no” really a “NO,” and when is it a “try again, but differently”? Even the most tenacious of us need to recognize that some doors are meant to remain closed. Perhaps you’re chasing a deal that isn’t the right fit or sticking to a strategy that’s clearly not working. In those moments, the wisdom to pivot is invaluable.

    The key here is data and intuition. Collect and analyze data on your efforts. Are you getting closer to a “yes” or further away? Your gut feeling, informed by experience, will often be your best guide. And remember, redirecting your energy doesn’t mean defeat — it means you’re savvy enough to focus on battles you can win.

    Related: The Art of the Pivot — 6 Steps to Reengineer Yourself for a Career Change

    Rejection is often not about you

    We often internalize rejection as a fault in our personality, skills or ideas. That’s rarely the entire story. External factors — economic downturns, corporate restructuring or internal politics — often contribute to that “no” more than you might think.

    So, when you hear that dreaded word, take a step back. Separate your personal attachment from the situation to objectively analyze why you were rejected. Was it the wrong time for the company? Were there budget constraints? Perhaps a change in leadership? If the rejection involves factors out of your control, don’t let it weigh down your self-worth or deter your progress. Instead, revise your strategy, recalibrate your pitch, and knock on the next door with renewed gusto.

    After you’ve paused to analyze the rejection, knowing full well that many variables could be out of your hands, it’s time to look forward. Start by refining your game plan. There’s an art to taking a “no” and letting it sculpt you into a better, more prepared individual. Pivot your approach, retool your game plan and consider “no” a constructive critique on the road to “yes.”

    Now, you’ve got to build some mental muscle. Rejection stings, but resilience is the salve. Put rejection in your rearview, as your focus needs to be on the road ahead. Every setback is just a setup for an even greater comeback.

    And please, for your own sake, don’t get tunnel-vision chasing one opportunity. Diversify your approaches; it’s like having multiple lines in the water when you’re fishing. One might not bite, but another will. Keep your connections fresh and your network dynamic. Your next opportunity could come from the most unexpected conversations.

    So, as you continue on this unpredictable path, never lose sight of your dream. Every great story — from Edison’s thousand attempts to create a light bulb to J.K. Rowling’s twelve rejections before Harry Potter saw the light of day — includes an anthology of “no’s.” Yours is no different. The ‘yes’ you’re searching for, the one that changes everything, could be just around the corner. And the lessons learned from each “no” along the way? That’s your roadmap, filled with detours that make the journey richer, not just longer, but only if you dare to persevere and the wisdom to pivot when needed.

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    Scott Deming

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  • Get a Lifetime Jillian Michaels Fitness App Subscription for $150 in October | Entrepreneur

    Get a Lifetime Jillian Michaels Fitness App Subscription for $150 in October | Entrepreneur

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    Disclosure: Our goal is to feature products and services that we think you’ll find interesting and useful. If you purchase them, Entrepreneur may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our commerce partners.

    The holiday shopping season is around the corner, and it’s going to get hectic. To get ahead of the rush, consider picking up something evergreen, something that could bring value to anyone in your life. For example, you could get this lifetime subscription to Jillian Michaels: The Fitness App for just $149.97 (reg. $449) through October 31st only.

    Getting in shape is one of the most valuable and challenging things to do in life. That’s why it’s worth opening yourself up to the inspiration and guidance of a well-known and widely trusted trainer. The same goes for someone who you might gift this subscription to. Jillian Michaels is a famous celebrity trainer based in the United States, and her complete online training program is made available with this offer. However, it’s important to note that this deal is available for new customers only.

    The subscription includes lifetime access to over one thousand workout and exercise videos. These target users whose experience ranges from beginner to advanced, meaning anyone can pick it up and grow with the program. Users can also customize the options to their own needs and interests by swapping, combining, and even banning exercises from workouts of their choice.

    Users can also curate their workouts based on the equipment they have available, play their own music during a given workout, and use the Beat Sync feature to adjust the beat of the music to the pace of the workout. The workout generator features across this subscription are superb. That might have something to do with its average App Store rating of 4.7/5 stars.

    Get this lifetime subscription to Jillian Michaels: The Fitness App for the exclusive price of $149.97 (reg. $449) through October 31st at 11:59 p.m. PT.

    Prices subject to change.

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    Entrepreneur Store

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  • How Leaders Can Build and Cultivate a Sustainable Business | Entrepreneur

    How Leaders Can Build and Cultivate a Sustainable Business | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    The global business ecosystem is witnessing an unprecedented metamorphosis, pivoting from traditional models to ones that deeply embed sustainable entrepreneurship as a core ethos. This new paradigm weaves together the age-old, profit-centric motives of businesses with a renewed and impassioned commitment to the betterment of society and the nurturing of our environment. It’s not merely a passing trend or a superficial alignment with popular sentiment; it represents the dawning of a more conscious era of commerce.

    Exhaustive studies and surveys have repeatedly highlighted a discernible shift in both consumer preferences and investor priorities. A growing cohort now resonates more vibrantly with brands and corporations that reflect their own ethical, ecological and societal values, underscoring that the ‘business as usual’ model is outdated and potentially detrimental in the long run.

    Related: 5 Ways to Make Your Business More Sustainable

    My personal immersion into sustainable entrepreneurship wasn’t an impulsive leap but a meticulously thought-out transition kindled by a seminal Harvard Business Review article. This piece, lucid in its narrative and compelling in its arguments, accentuated the urgency and indispensability of synchronizing business strategies with conscious, purpose-driven goals. It was a moment of epiphany, underscoring that generating wealth and catalyzing societal progress aren’t mutually exclusive but can be harmoniously synergized.

    To put it succinctly, the evolving zeitgeist of the 21st-century business world demands a recalibration of objectives and methodologies. The compass is no longer pointing solely towards monetary profit. Instead, it indicates a more holistic destination: profit intertwined with purpose, fiscal growth in harmony with ecological sustainability and societal advancement.

    Catalysts driving sustainable entrepreneurship

    As I navigated the complex world of entrepreneurship, I was continually made aware of the evolving ethos of consumers. A comprehensive IPSOS report shed light on this sea change, highlighting that modern consumers increasingly align their brand loyalty with ethical and environmental values. As I’ve learned, integrating sustainability into one’s business ethos goes far beyond public relations. It is a formidable pillar that can solidify a brand’s market position, unveil operational efficiencies, and mitigate long-term risks. Moreover, with international policy frameworks pivoting toward environmental conservation, businesses have both a moral and economic incentive to adopt sustainable practices.

    Related: Are You Implementing the 3 Ps of Sustainability? Experts Say You Should.

    Personal hurdles, solutions and insights

    On my entrepreneurial path, I sought inspiration from vanguards in the sustainable business space. For instance, the ascent of Beyond Meat isn’t just a testament to its innovative plant-based products. It’s also emblematic of a broader societal shift towards eco-conscious consumption. These companies underscore the commercial potential and societal imperative of green technologies. Their success stories are a testament to the fact that with foresight, innovation and persistence, sustainable businesses can indeed thrive and lead the market.

    Like every entrepreneurial venture, my journey was punctuated with challenges and introspections. A recurrent query that often surfaced was the economic viability of wholeheartedly embracing sustainability. I turned to online educational platforms and discovered courses that seamlessly blended sustainability with business, reaffirming that an eco-conscious strategy can align seamlessly with profitability, provided it’s executed with authenticity and foresight.

    Related: Sustainability In the Supply Chain Is the Need Of the Hour

    Reflecting and looking ahead

    In reflection, the role of an entrepreneur in today’s complex and rapidly evolving socio-economic landscape goes beyond traditional definitions. Entrepreneurs are no longer just innovators or market leaders; they’ve become architects of change, embodying a vision that intertwines profit with purpose. At the core, we’re expected to wear multiple hats — that of business magnates, societal reformers, ethical watchdogs and even environmental stewards.

    This multifaceted role emerged sharply during my foray into sustainable entrepreneurship. Every challenge faced and every decision made underscores a deeper realization: Sustainability is not just a buzzword businesses should adopt for contemporary relevance. It’s a foundational principle, a beacon guiding every strategic decision, shaped equally by ethical mandates and forward-thinking business pragmatism.

    I’ve come to view sustainable entrepreneurship as a tapestry intricately woven with threads of ecological balance, social responsibility and economic viability. Each thread is as crucial as the other, and removing one would unravel the entire fabric. It is this delicate balance that drives the essence of modern entrepreneurship.

    However, it’s essential to acknowledge that adopting sustainability isn’t just about securing future market positions or hedging against potential regulatory shifts. It’s about genuine commitment. It’s about understanding that every product we create, every service we offer, and every market we enter has ramifications that ripple outwards, affecting communities, ecosystems and global paradigms.

    As we stand at this pivotal juncture, with the weight of impending climatic crises and socio-economic disparities bearing down upon us, the onus is on entrepreneurs to lead the charge. To pivot from traditional business models that prized profits above all else to holistic frameworks that value collective growth and shared prosperity.

    My message to fellow entrepreneurs is both an appeal and an exhortation: As we sculpt the businesses of tomorrow, let us engrain sustainability into our corporate DNA. Let every decision be a testament to a future that is not just economically robust but also socially equitable and environmentally resilient.

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    Henri Al Helaly

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  • 5 Risks You Should Know About Daylight Saving Time | Entrepreneur

    5 Risks You Should Know About Daylight Saving Time | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    November 5 is right around the corner. That means it’ll be time to turn your clocks back an hour to observe the end of daylight saving time (DST). Daylight saving time was created to maximize the daylight hours during the spring and summer months, but switching back and forth can take its toll on the human body.

    That may be why the U.S. Senate introduced the Sunshine Protection Act to make DST permanent nationwide. Although it stalled in the House in 2022, future votes could finally bring change to the U.S. Until then, it’s important to understand the hidden dangers of adjusting the clock twice each year.

    Here’s what entrepreneurs should know about the dangers of the time change.

    Related: How to Set Boundaries With Your Team While You’re on Vacation

    The health risks of disrupted sleep

    A growing body of research highlights the health risks of disrupted sleep. Your body has an internal clock known as its circadian rhythm. This clock regulates your sleeping patterns, metabolism and even your body temperature. The time change disrupts that clock, which can result in the following:

    Sleep deprivation

    The most immediate effect is sleep deprivation. It takes time for your body to adjust to your new bedtime. Although your body will adjust in two weeks or less, in the meantime, you might experience fatigue or difficulty focusing.

    Cardiac issues

    Technically, the time change doesn’t cause cardiac issues, but the switch to/from DST has been correlated with an increased risk of heart attack or stroke. If you already have cardiac issues, the time change can make them worse.

    Metabolic disruption

    Your circadian rhythm also regulates your metabolism. Disruption can result in a slower metabolism, which may also lead to weight gain. That’s right — resetting the clock can have a measurable impact on your waistline.

    Related: How to Wake Up Early

    Increased evening car accidents

    The time change takes its toll on the human body. It can also have an impact on the country’s freeways.

    Daylight saving time and car accidents

    Switching to DST each spring yields a 6% increase in auto accidents. Switching back each fall yields a whopping 16% increase in deer-related car accidents.

    This increase is partly due to the reduced visibility in the evening hours. The fall also brings a change in animal behavior, which means that drivers may encounter more deer on the roads. Additionally, the shift from DST increases the number of sleep-deprived drivers on America’s roadways. Combine these factors and you have the perfect conditions for more accidents.

    Tips for your commute after DST ends

    Entrepreneurs don’t always get to choose what time of day they will be on the road. Here are a few ways to adjust your driving habits to stay safe following the time change:

    • Adjust your sleep schedule to prevent fatigue
    • Make sure your headlights/taillights are working
    • Don’t work late and become overtired
    • Stay alert and watch out for potential dangers
    • Join a carpool to share the burden of driving

    If you bike to and from work, make sure your clothing features plenty of reflectors to boost your visibility.

    Related: 9 Simple Ways to Transform Your Morning Routine and Boost Productivity

    The challenge of adjusting sleep schedules

    Adjusting to the time change is basically like going through a minor form of jet lag twice a year. Eventually, your body will adjust, but in the meantime, you might face some disruptions in your sleep schedule — which will also impact your productivity.

    The time change and your sleep schedule

    How long does it take to adjust your sleep schedule to the time change? According to the Sleep Foundation, it can take anywhere from a few days to a week. It can be especially hard if your schedule has you getting up before dawn or facing longer nighttime hours after a long day.

    The time change and productivity

    Sleep disruptions have a direct impact on your productivity. Research shows that the Monday after the time change, Google searches for music and videos spike, suggesting that people are spending less time actually working.

    How to adjust your sleep schedule

    As an entrepreneur, it’s important to adapt quickly to the time change. Here are some tips for getting a good night’s sleep once daylight saving time ends:

    • Gradually adjust your sleep schedule before DST ends
    • Stick to the same sleep routine
    • Avoid screens an hour before bedtime
    • Exercise regularly to maximize light exposure
    • Avoid naps

    Remember, your body will adjust. But these tips can streamline the transition so you can keep your head in the game without your eyes getting heavy.

    Related: If You’re Not Already Focusing on Employee Well-Being, You Should Be – And Your Bottom Line Will Thank You

    Mental health implications of daylight saving time

    Don’t neglect your mental health during the time change. If you already struggle with anxiety and depression, your symptoms may worsen when the daylight hours shorten. You may also experience seasonal affective disorder, which results in mood changes or symptoms of depression during the winter months.

    Entrepreneurs and mental health

    Entrepreneurs face unique risk factors and challenges. The time change occurs roughly at the start of the holiday shopping/shipping season, which means that your stress may be at a high. That’s why it’s important to practice self-care before and after the time change. Try to do the following:

    • Get regular exercise
    • Stick to your sleep routine
    • Stay connected with friends and family
    • Prioritize your days off
    • Maintain a healthy diet
    • Seek professional help when you’re overwhelmed

    When you get busy, it’s tempting to work through your day off or to binge on fast food. But maintaining healthy habits will be better for your body and mind.

    Related: These Strategies Help Entrepreneurs Combat Anxiety and Depression

    The impact on business operations

    Does the time change impact your business operations? Absolutely. The transition to/from DST can impact the way you interact with customers and other businesses.

    Customer interactions

    When people aren’t sleeping, people aren’t happy. Sleep disruptions don’t just make you tired; they can make you irritable. That can add volatility to your customer interactions. Customer complaints can quickly develop into full-blown confrontations, and your customer service team might be a bit short on patience themselves.

    Business collaboration

    The time change can make it difficult to schedule meetings with business partners and suppliers in different time zones. Some states (Arizona and Hawaii) don’t observe daylight saving time at all. International suppliers may be confused about the time change, making it hard to pursue collaboration.

    How to maintain efficiency

    Business leaders can ensure efficiency throughout the time change by:

    • Keeping employees and business partners informed about scheduling changes
    • Educating customer service reps about the impact of DST on psychology
    • Planning for the time change in advance
    • Maintaining your own physical/mental health throughout the change

    The good news is that DST comes and goes every year. Even new entrepreneurs can quickly learn the best practices to stay resilient during the transition.

    Related: 7 Things to Add to Make Your Morning Routine More Productive

    Be proactive, not reactive

    The transition from daylight saving time can take you by surprise. And if it does, you can experience the adverse health and occupational effects detailed above. But as an entrepreneur, you know the importance of being proactive. You’re in control of your mental and physical health, just as you’re in control of what happens in your business.

    Taking care of yourself is your first priority. Practice self-care, and don’t let stress knock you off your routine. By adapting your routine to the disruption of the time change, you can look forward to thriving both personally and professionally.

    Related: How to Fit Self-Care Into Your Crazy Busy Entrepreneurial Days

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    John Boitnott

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  • Too Many Responsibilities? This Simple Life Hack Will Help You Reclaim Your Life | Entrepreneur

    Too Many Responsibilities? This Simple Life Hack Will Help You Reclaim Your Life | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Once in a while, everyone experiences a moment when they realize the need to reconsider something about their life to make it more enjoyable and productive. Re-contracting is a strategy that allows an individual to single out tasks, patterns and people that are draining energy and holding them back.

    Originally rooted in the teachings of the Roman philosopher Seneca, the concept of re-contracting has withstood the test of time. Seneca once wrote to his student Lucilius, “A good man will not waste himself upon mean and discreditable work or be busy merely for the sake of being busy.”

    Today, this idea is a foundational pillar in executive coaching. Programs advocate for regular re-contracting with clients. The power of this technique is in its simplicity and minimal time investment. For all that, it’s powerful enough to help you declutter your time, escape from energy-draining obligations and distance yourself from toxic relationships.

    Related: How to Spring Clean Your Life in Just 15 Minutes

    Identifying hidden contracts

    To apply re-contracting to your life, find weak spots in the three main areas. Here’s what you need to do:

    1. Self-evaluation: Make a list of tasks you routinely do but despise. Reflect on their necessity and value. Tip: Unsure where to start? Maintain a time diary. Documenting your daily activities can help pinpoint time-consuming tasks.
    2. Business evaluation: List out all business and operational tasks. Consider if they can be eliminated or delegated. Tip: Review your calendar and task management apps for recurring events and responsibilities.
    3. Relationship audit: Identify professional and personal relationships that aren’t benefiting you. This encompasses work colleagues, family, clients, associates and acquaintances like gym partners. Tip: Recollect when you feel exhausted after a conversation or meeting with somebody. Think if it was caused by the person or by other circumstances.

    The three pillars of re-contracting

    Now, let’s move on to eliminating the obligations that don’t work. There are three primary ways to re-contract:

    1. Give it up: This encompasses outright elimination. For instance, if a hobby drains you, consider quitting. End the contract if a demanding client is more trouble than they’re worth.
    2. Renegotiate: Consider a trade-off for tasks you loathe, but others might enjoy. The aim is to swap an undesirable task for a more pleasant one.
    3. Buy or delegate: If purchasing a service or tool can save you time, invest in it. Delegation, though sometimes requiring hiring assistance, can be invaluable in freeing up mental and temporal bandwidth.

    I’ve already applied those strategies to a few things in my life and can share some examples to illustrate how it works. Attending trade conferences affected my health, so I shifted to alternative client acquisition methods. A client was taking too much of my headspace, so I found a subcontractor to take care of his account. I had been taking voice lessons, and while they provided some benefits, the commute wasn’t worth the effort.

    Sometimes, we hold on to duties, people or ways of doing things out of habit or because we feel obliged and consider any discomfort a normal part of life. Letting go is not easy for some of us, but it’s a good skill that may take you to the next level in life.

    Related: 7 Rules for Entrepreneurs to Delegate Effectively

    An important note on habits

    On the one hand, acquiring good habits and quitting bad ones is all the rage, and there are multiple books and science behind it. They can truly be a savior of your time, happiness and vitality. On the other hand, it’s also easy to become a habit maniac and get burned out.

    Write down habits you’re trying to adopt or break into your re-contracting list. Reflect on their effectiveness, long-term value and the energy they consume. Also, sometimes, we want to adopt a habit out of pure desire to follow our role models or to feel better about ourselves. However, habits that serve others right and sound good in theory may not work for you. One size doesn’t fit all; what makes Mark Zuckerberg productive and happy may wear you out.

    What’s next?

    Upon freeing up time, you might wonder how to reallocate it. Consider listing activities and individuals that energize you.

    For those looking for unconventional advice, Scott Adams, the creator of Dilbert, suggests a unique approach in his book, Rewire Your Brain: Think Your Way to a Better Life. Adams champions the idea of embracing embarrassment as an antidote to monotony, suggesting, “If I’m bored, this means I’m not embarrassing myself enough.” Or you may consider occupying yourself with nothing. Rick Rubin, a famous music producer, writes in his book The Creative Act: A Way of Being that we all need time to do nothing to come up with creative ideas. Boredom may be a booster for new ideas and inventiveness.

    Re-contracting isn’t just about reclaiming time but refocusing on what truly matters in life. Doing this simple audit quarterly can have a profound effect on the quality of your life and the quality of your relationships.

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    Kirill Perevozchikov

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  • Avoid This ‘Crazy’ Mistake When Setting Up Your Home Office | Entrepreneur

    Avoid This ‘Crazy’ Mistake When Setting Up Your Home Office | Entrepreneur

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    Remote and hybrid work models are here to stay, with 58% of Americans reporting they have the opportunity to work from home at least one day a week, according to a 2022 McKinsey survey. That means setting up a home office that’s actually conducive to productivity — and general well-being — is more critical than ever before.

    And it’s something Ali Budd, president and creative director of Ali Budd Interiors and star of Hulu’s new design docuseries House of Ali, knows all about. “Covid obviously changed everything for us and how we think about working from home,” she tells Entrepreneur. “It’s always a balance between form and function, and especially [for] somewhere you’re sitting for long periods of time.”

    Related: 3 Steps to Fix a Home Office Setup That Has You Feeling Uninspired

    Budd, a veteran interior designer whose million-dollar renovations (and $20,000-$30,000 office overhauls) helped put her on the map, caught the design bug young as the daughter of two artistic parents who ran an ad agency. Her father would travel the world to stage and photograph different spaces, and from an early age, Budd had a knack for that sort of work herself — from reorganizing the basement to redecorating her room.

    “When there’s less clutter everywhere, you actually feel better mentally.”

    Budd is quick to point out that there are no hard and fast rules when it comes to designing the home office of your dreams, but paying attention to a few key details can go a long way toward cultivating the right workspace for you.

    First up? Budd suggests creating a plan to make sure you end up with a space you truly love. Things get a lot easier once you measure a room and decide which pieces of furniture you’ll need and exactly where they’ll go. It’ll also help you stay on “budget and with the overall vibe,” Budd says.

    When it comes to home office design, Budd stresses that having a separate space — even if that doesn’t include a door — is “the most important” place to start, as it helps distinguish between “your mindset for work and relaxing.”

    Related: 3 Bad Work From Home Habits That Hurt Productivity | Entrepreneur

    Next, consider what you actually need in your workspace, and don’t fall into the trap of adding a bunch of stuff unnecessarily. “We used to need filing cabinets and so many drawers in our desk,” Budd explains. “And we don’t need any of that stuff 1695960906. I watched this thing recently on the evolution of the desktop; it went from the ’50s to now [covering] what people needed on their desks. It was cool. [And] it went from 400 things on your desk [to] just your laptop. When there’s less clutter everywhere, you feel better mentally.”

    Workspace at Ali Budd Interiors headquarters in Toronto. Image Credit: Valerie Wilcox.

    “We need to remove the word ‘trend’ when it comes to interior design because it’s such a crazy notion.”

    Once you pinpoint what you need, you can start putting the space together. Again, Budd emphasizes that there are no rigid guidelines or must-dos — it’s all about adding what brings you joy. But some items worthy of consideration? A “really comfortable chair,” an aesthetically pleasing Zoom background (“even if you just set up a little sheet or something”), fresh flowers and a desk facing the room, not the wall — all the better to see the beautiful space you’ve designed and reduce the appearance of unsightly cords.

    There might not be rules when it comes to setting up your perfect space, but Budd does caution against one major faux pas: finding inspiration from whatever seems to be trending. “We need to remove the word ‘trend’ when it comes to interior design because it’s such a crazy notion,” Budd says. “You are investing in pieces you are living with every day. Why on earth would you care what a trend is? I also think if you like pink, it’s not trendy. If you like black, it’s not trendy. You love what you love.”

    Related: 8 Tips to Squeeze More Savings from Your Home Office | Entrepreneur

    Budd’s own office is a testament to that advice. Its crowning feature is a large desk that belonged to her late father. Because the desk was in storage until she found a space big enough to hold it, it was in “rough shape” — fortunately, a friend refinished it for her.

    “[The desk] just gives me such an emotional connection to [the space],” Budd says. “Because my dad was an entrepreneur as well. He ran a business for a long time; I grew up there. So to think about me trying to do that now, it’s very sentimental to me, and it’s very beautiful, and it sort of all works together.”

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    Amanda Breen

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  • Self-Care Isn’t Selfish — It’s Essential. Here’s Why. | Entrepreneur

    Self-Care Isn’t Selfish — It’s Essential. Here’s Why. | Entrepreneur

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    What’s your first instinct when you feel the mounting pressures of running a business?

    If you’re like many leaders, you double down on your workload. That means spending more time at the office and less time on your personal health, hobbies and relationships — and that might work sometimes. You may even attribute your business’s success to that instinct.

    The problem is that humans aren’t designed to function at maximum capacity 24/7. Working twice as hard doesn’t necessarily result in getting twice as much work done. Instead, pushing yourself past the point of exhaustion has been shown to lead to less creativity, reduced working memory and capacity for problem-solving and worse business outcomes.

    Unfortunately, “self-care” has become so overused as a buzzword that it has become meaningless other than as a way to sell bath bombs and expensive retreats. But self-care isn’t a self-indulgent luxury for people with more time than you; it’s an essential tool for high-performing leaders who want to excel in their business.

    If you want to maintain high performance and effectively navigate the challenges of leading people and leading a business, it’s time to shift your perspective.

    Related:

    The rise of burnout in leadership

    We heard a lot about burnout during the pandemic and its aftermath. Reporting from Gallup showed that the burnout rate among managers increased significantly between 2020 and 2021, leading to increased quit rates among managers and leaders and unmanageable workloads for those who stayed.

    But, burnout among leaders is a perennial problem — one that existed long before the pandemic, and one that will persist in the future. For instance, Gallup polling from 2018 showed that more than two-thirds of workers were burned out, with managers reporting more stress and burnout, worse work-life balance and worse physical health than members of their teams. And, a recent survey found that even though life outside the workplace has returned to normal for most people, 70% of C-level executives are considering leaving their company and taking a new role in an organization that supports their well-being.

    Self-care: Beyond the bubble bath

    Of course, as an entrepreneur running two companies, I know that understanding the importance of self-care and making time for self-care aren’t the same thing. Here are some practical methods for incorporating self-care into your routine and infusing it into your organization.

    1. Small acts of self-kindness

    Self-care doesn’t require grand gestures. Instead, small investments can have an outsized effect. It can be as simple as slowing down to taste your coffee in the morning or taking a short walk in the fresh air before heading into the office.

    To carry self-care through your workday, you could build a playlist of your favorite songs that plays in the background as you work. Or get a vase of fresh flowers once a week to place on your desk. If you find yourself fading around mid-afternoon, take a walk, take a few deep breaths and reset yourself for the rest of the day.

    There’s no limit to the amount or types of things you can do to take care of yourself at home and work. Finding ways to add elements of self-care to your daily routine is a great way to ensure your mind and body are getting the rest and nourishment they need to fuel the rest of your day.

    Related:

    2. Take extended breaks, too

    Vacation time should be viewed as mandatory, not optional. Completely unplugging from work is linked with increased well-being, engagement and creativity. Going on vacation can also lower stress and reduce your risk of developing heart disease. Don’t believe it? Consider that Lin-Manuel Miranda credits his idea for the award-winning musical Hamilton with taking a vacation.

    But, so many of the entrepreneurs and executives I work with are reluctant to take a vacation. This mindset is not only bad for you — it’s bad for your employees. According to the Pew Research Center, 46% of employees in the U.S. take less time off than their company offers. Many of them don’t want to burden their co-workers with extra work. Some fear they will miss out on career advancement opportunities or possibly lose their jobs if they take time off.

    3. Make yourself less essential

    We all know that entrepreneurs wear many hats, especially in the early days of their business. But if your company comes to a standstill the moment you step away, you’re doing something wrong.

    It can feel gratifying to be integral to your business’s functioning, but ultimately, you’re shooting yourself (and your business) in the foot. A Gallup survey found that companies run by CEOs who delegate have a three-year growth rate that is 112 percentage points higher than companies with CEOs who do not delegate.

    Leadership is the act of setting a vision and then accomplishing that vision through others. Surround yourself with people that you trust and then empower them to do their jobs. That way, you can take a break without feeling the burden of your business crumbling behind you as you walk away.

    4. Lead by example

    As leaders, we need to remember that our employees are watching us and taking their cues from our behavior. When you ignore your own well-being, you send the message that your employees should ignore their well-being, too.

    As a leader, it’s on you to create a permission structure and culture of self-care at your organization. Talk about the importance of self-care at work openly and frequently, especially with your leaders. Encourage employees to set (and keep) boundaries, especially when they are working remotely and the lines between when their workday begins and ends are blurred. When leaders practice self-care, the rest of the organization is more likely to follow.

    Related:

    5. Build self-awareness

    Once you’ve created permission for you and your employees to take care of yourselves, you have to build the self-awareness to know when you’re showing up in an unproductive way and the self-efficacy to take some time when you are.

    For example, I recently had a day that found me spiraling into a ball of stress and burnout. So, I decided to take the next morning a little slower than usual. Instead of rushing to the office, I spent a few extra minutes outdoors, picked a few fresh tomatoes from my garden and made an omelet.

    I knew I wasn’t going to show up in a productive way if I just barrelled into the office all stressed out.

    You need to expect the same from your employees. Forcing your employees to take care of themselves is infantilizing. They’re adults. Set an example and then trust them to follow it.

    Build your surge capacity

    In an interview with the American Psychological Association, Dr. Ann Masten, a psychologist and expert on resilience, talked about the importance of protecting what she called surge capacity — the mental and physical resources we use to survive the stressful situations that are so common to life as an entrepreneur.

    Unfortunately, she said, that capacity can get depleted. Faced with continuous challenges, we get exhausted and overwhelmed. When it does, we need to step back and try to replenish and restore our capacity through self-care.

    As a leader, there will always be days when walking away from work feels challenging or even impossible. The key to taking care of yourself on the days you can is to remember that acts of self-care now will enable high-performance in the moments that matter.

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    Jonathan Kirschner

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  • How to Power Nap Your Way to Maximum Productivity | Entrepreneur

    How to Power Nap Your Way to Maximum Productivity | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    Professional athletes are known for their pre-game rituals. In the NBA, LeBron James tosses chalk in the air (allegedly a nod to fellow legend Michael Jordan), while Kevin Garnett would slap his chest to the crowd and then hit his head on the basket support, and Dwyane Wade would do three pull-ups on the rim. While many rituals are as unique as the players themselves, a widely embraced practice for pro ballers is the pre-game nap. LeBron James, Derrick Rose and the late Kobe Bryant were all serial nappers, and that’s no coincidence: Research has shown that rest of that kind boosts performance, including perceptional awareness. NBA commissioner Adam Silver once went as far as to say, “Everyone in the league office knows not to call players at 3:00 p.m.”

    Despite this, “sleeping on the job” still sports a negative lifestyle connotation. In the startup world especially, where entrepreneurs make no secret of burning the candle at both ends, a daytime snooze seems antithetical to the deeply-engrained hustle culture, but a nap during office hours can be very effective in boosting overall health, including fighting the all-too-common burnout phenomenon. As reported by Harvard Business Review, studies suggest that up to 61% of U.S. professionals feel like they’re burning out at any given moment, and according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, fatigue costs American businesses up to $218 billion annually in reduced productivity and worker absence due to related health issues.

    At Jotform, we work hard (sometimes in sprints during hack weeks, for example), but as CEO and a firm believer in the power of a nap, I also cultivate an atmosphere in which we rest hard, too.

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    Aytekin Tank

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  • This is What It Actually Means to Show Up — Both Personally and Professionally | Entrepreneur

    This is What It Actually Means to Show Up — Both Personally and Professionally | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    A favorite subject for entrepreneurial articles and podcasts is that of habits. Hundreds (if not thousands) of books are touting the importance of creating good habits. Your own habits depend on your end goal, but a lot of them seem to place particular importance on mastering your morning routine. Maybe that looks like meditating or hitting the gym by 6 a.m., gulping grass-fed butter-infused coffee or a superfood smoothie, and jotting down something in your daily gratitude journal before heading to work.

    Good habits are a method of keeping ourselves on course. In James Clear’s book Atomic Habits, he shares an analogy about a flight from LA to NYC. If the pilot points the nose just a few degrees south, eventually, the plane will end up in DC rather than its intended destination. It’s a great example of how tiny changes can make a big difference.

    We know good habits are important, and, particularly as entrepreneurs, we must stay on our A-game. People are watching, right? We’re setting an example, and the pressure is on. So, why, o’ why, do good habits sometimes feel like they’re so hard to maintain?

    Related: 18 Destructive Habits Holding You Back From Success

    Why consistency can feel hard

    Reading Clear’s book, I thought, “Oh, that’s why staying on the path matters. Cool!” But as I sat with that concept for a few minutes, I started to feel some anxiety creeping in. As a leader, I can’t take a single step in the wrong direction because if I do, I miss my target. And people are counting on me.

    What if I make a bad decision? What if I’m not always the last one to leave the office? What if I totally spaced that meeting… twice? What if I hired someone who turned out to make everyone’s life more stressful? What if I didn’t pick the right snacks for the break room?

    Aaaahhhhhhhhhh. I’m gonna need that oxygen mask.

    We sure do put a lot of pressure on ourselves. Stay on the path. Don’t mess up. And when that performance pressure becomes too much, our brains or bodies (or both) just crash. That’s a message, not a failure.

    When it happens, it’s important to take a moment to ask if the path you’re pursuing is actually leading you to the destination you think it is. After all, you’re a person, not a plane. If your body feels tired or your mind feels overwhelmed, it’s totally okay to touch down. Recalibrate periodically. Reevaluate the path.

    Related: 3 Simple Methods To Achieve Work-Life Balance And Combat Decision Fatigue

    Showing up is personal

    Habits can be anything you want them to be, but to qualify as habits, they need to stay consistent. We have to show up when we say we will to reap the rewards. Yes, I know it sounds a lot like “discipline.” Trust me, the rebel in me thought, “Hell, no. I’m not a military operation!” But I’ve started to realize that good habits aren’t asking for perfection. They’re just asking you to show up when and how you can.

    The truth is, some days, we don’t feel 100%. Maybe there’s only 25% in our tank. Say you had a late night binging some Netflix series that you couldn’t bring yourself to stop. Or you went to a friend’s birthday dinner, and the late-night conversation was too good to miss. Or you have a loved one in the hospital, and you’re mind is elsewhere. That’s life. Those are normal, sometimes even healthy, interruptions. Showing up to maintain your good habits means you do what you can consistently. That doesn’t mean always. It means regularly.

    Related: A ‘Quiet Promotion’ Will Cost You a Lot — Use This Expert’s 4-Step Strategy to Avoid It

    Practicing and prioritizing consistency

    When it comes to habits, we tend to overestimate the importance of a single action while we underestimate the importance of small, repetitive movements. If you had a piggy bank as a kid, then you know what I’m talking about. Every day, you drop a penny into the slot. One day, you put a dime in there. That’s awesome!

    But that doesn’t mean you need to put a dime in every day now for it to keep adding up. (It also doesn’t mean you should change your route to avoid seeing the piggy bank and, thus, feeling guilty.) Okay, guilty as charged…this is a gym metaphor. The point is that you just need to consistently be putting something in that piggy bank or calorie tracker. That’s what showing up is all about.

    How to show up…for yourself

    In an episode of her podcast How To Take Action, Sarah Arnold Hall says, “Doing something every day is actually easier than doing it once in a while.” Speaking from experience, I can confirm. Going to the gym five days a week feels way easier than going only two days a week. Gratitude journaling daily is easier and better for my mental health than doing it only when I feel like it.

    But just like flying a plane, there are times when I’ve experienced unexpected turbulence along the way. Flying conditions may not always be perfect. In those moments, I have to give myself grace. Touch down for a break. Refuel. Prioritize my vessel.

    When we establish a habit, taking a break doesn’t make it go away. Habits occupy a permanent place in our brains. Interruptions will happen, but our habits will still be there when we’re ready to pick them back up again.

    When we feel like it’s time to get back on the runway, all we need to do is look out the window, and voilà! When you show up, blue skies will return. Meaningful accomplishment takes time because it’s accumulative. It’s a process of learning from our mistakes, adjusting the path when something isn’t working, and figuring out what really matters. Over time, you’ll start to recognize the fruits of your habitual labors, and only then will you see just how far you’ve come.

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    Ginni Saraswati

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  • 4 Ways to Overcome Your Doubts When Healing From Divorce | Entrepreneur

    4 Ways to Overcome Your Doubts When Healing From Divorce | Entrepreneur

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    Doubt can be a nasty little nudge or catapult one into despair during and after a divorce. If you ask any divorced person whether they ever doubted their decision to get divorced, many will say yes. Why do we have doubts about divorce after making one of the most impactful decisions of our lives, and what’s the best way to deal with it so that we can continue on the healing journey and not get pulled down into a well of negativity?

    When going through my own divorce healing journey, I coined the terms “Hiccup Effect” and “Reverse Hiccups.” The Hiccup Effect means feeling doubtful about the divorce and often is realized after the divorce has been finalized. Because there are so many emotions associated with the death of a marriage, it is natural to have doubts, so the first thing to realize when you have the “hiccups” is that it is normal to experience the feelings. Remember that while feelings can be painful or even devastating, they are usually temporary and will resolve with self-work through the healing process.

    Related: 7 Ways to Rebuild Your Financial Life Post-Divorce

    Hiccups

    “Hiccups” are usually caused by fear or loneliness, even when you know in your heart that the decision to divorce was soundly made; in other words, when you thoroughly contemplated the divorce and knew it was the “right” thing to do to live your best and highest life. These feelings need to be explored when experiencing “hiccups” to determine the next steps, and professional help is a great place to start if one doesn’t know how to explore feeling origins and learn how to get past them.

    “Hiccups” are often experienced during difficult times, such as when one gets sick or needs help in some way – and the spouse is no longer there to comfort, take care of you or ease a burden. It is important to be mindful that these feelings are the body’s and soul’s way of “shedding” – getting rid of people and things that no longer serve us. Recognize the feelings, sit with them, explore their origins, and let them go. You can try some physical release exercises to help, but if you feel you are slipping into a victim mindset or worse (becoming depressed, not wanting to go out or eat or sleep, abusing substances, etc.), please seek professional help.

    Related: 5 Ways to Overcome Self-Doubt as an Entrepreneur

    Reverse hiccups

    “Reverse Hiccups” are when the former spouse has “hiccups” dealing with their new existence outside of the marriage and projects their challenges onto you, which can affect your healing process. Their feelings might be conveyed by calling, texting, emailing, running into each other or even something that is said to the children (which should NEVER be done, by the way – keep them entirely out of how you feel about the former spouse and only speak well of their other parent so they too can heal).

    The other spouse may use blaming, shaming, and even attempted manipulation as coping mechanisms to bring you down, too, so it is essential not to react. You may need to step back before responding and even set some boundaries. If you are subject to reverse hiccups, realize first that, like you, the former spouse is transitioning as well, and their feelings are valid.

    Four tips to help you get through hiccups

    Some people may experience the Hiccup Effect and realize that they did make a mistake in getting a divorce — and this is what doing intense personal work is all about. Divorce should never be taken lightly, as a marriage takes hard work and needs attention to survive and thrive. It is imperative to see if the relationship can be healed before jumping into the divorce process, as with anything that involves an extensive choice.

    But if the divorce is past and the feelings of doubt are strong, it is necessary to work on the self first to determine whether the doubt is genuine or comes from some other emotion, like fear – and many fears can materialize upon divorce. Professional help may be required to discover the origin of the feelings before approaching the former spouse to dive into whether they feel the same, and to plan where to go from there.

    Here are some tips to help you get through “hiccups:”

    1. Write down your feelings

    Include what you feel needs to be let go. Make sure to focus on what you have and express gratitude. For example, if you feel lonely having someone to share what had been a tough day, instead focus on your bravery for leaving an unhappy marriage and how it allows you to create a new life in which you will find joy.

    Related: How to Purge the Toxic Emotions in Yourself to Facilitate Healing

    2. Physical release exercises

    Imagine you are throwing any negative feelings away, out of your system. You can take your hands behind your head, imagine the feeling you want to release and then throw your hands over your head and expunge them. Repeat as many times as needed, and do it for each successive feeling.

    You can also do a physical release by writing your feelings down on paper and sending them off somehow (burying them, crumbling and throwing them away, etc.).

    3. Reach out to your support network

    Those who love and support you can help you cheer up, especially with laughter. It is imperative to make sure that the people who are part of this network are the “right” people – those who love and support you and, most importantly, allow you to make your own choices. It is possible for those who love you to try and steer you into a specific direction, telling you what you should or should not do – these are not truly supportive people and may need to be let go.

    If you do not have the right people in your network, you can do a few things: sign up for classes, events or groups that do things that interest you. The people you meet there will likely share your passion. So take a dance or martial arts class, participate in a group sport, join a beach cleanup or volunteer group, learn how to sail/ski/surf or speak another language — whatever sounds fun so long as you get OUT of the house to do it.

    You can also join one of the many divorce support groups you will find live and online – but the caveat here is to make sure they do not allow negative commentary such as former spouse-bashing: stay away from anything negative that might bring your spirits down and stall your healing process.

    4. Move your body

    Exercise, walk, do yoga, etc. These good-for-us actions release endorphins and help us to feel better naturally. Try to do this both alone and with others. It is good to have alone time when you are healing, especially in nature, as it allows us to think, experience feelings and recognize how strong we are in being alone.

    It is also great to move your body with others, and it will make you feel good to take a walk or kayak around the lake with a friend or loved one. If you don’t have anyone with whom to do this join a group where you will meet others who are interested in the same fun ways to move the body – or pick something you can learn that sounds fun.

    Taking the steps to heal and committing to focus on the self after divorce is necessary. Remember that it is natural to question choices, especially when they are game-changers! Getting past the “hiccups” makes moving forward and recovering from divorce easier – and more fun!

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    Rachel S. Ruby

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  • Don’t Underestimate The Importance of Employee Wellbeing. Your Business Will Suffer The Most. | Entrepreneur

    Don’t Underestimate The Importance of Employee Wellbeing. Your Business Will Suffer The Most. | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of entrepreneurship, one critical yet often overlooked aspect is the workforce’s wellbeing. Where success is driven by constant innovation and growth, wellness often falls short. The barriers to investment in workplace mental and physical health remain significant.

    So why do these limitations still remain? From insufficient knowledge of the best practices to scarce research on why such investments have a positive impact, this topic is still full of prejudices and stereotypes. As a result, they hinder many entrepreneurs from prioritizing this vital area of their business growth.

    The growing mental strain many employees experience often drives them to lower performance, meaning the business is presented with the threat of losing its valuable workforce. At the same time, replacing an employee with a new hire is not only a logistical challenge but also a costly affair. It typically costs one-half to two times that employee’s annual pay. With talent at a premium and the competitive landscape intensifying, you can expect the financial toll to lean toward the higher end of the spectrum. This cost can go unnoticed without paying enough attention to the wellness costs of operating a business.

    Undoubtedly, all entrepreneurs understand the significance of assembling a talented and motivated long-term team. However, the true impact of neglecting employees’ wellbeing on the overall success of a business is often underestimated. Fostering a healthy environment is the future of workplaces worldwide, so explore the tangible benefits of integrating it now.

    Related: We Need a Real Commitment to Mental Health at Work. Here’s How (and Why).

    The wellbeing of leaders amounts to the wellbeing of the entire team

    Investment in yourself is the best investment, particularly for the people who drive the entire workforce with them. Any great organization starts from a leader; similarly, the leader’s wellbeing and resilience directly impact that business’s success. Here are a few ways that a leader’s wellness affects the bigger picture:

    1. Improving retention rates

    This is not evident, but investing in leaders’ health also indirectly impacts employee retention rates. When leaders show genuine care and support for their team members’ mental and emotional wellbeing, it fosters job satisfaction and loyalty. Employees are more likely to stay with the company, reducing turnover and retaining top talent.

    2. Prioritizing human-centered approach

    A human-centered approach is essential when building a business. Being mindful of their own wellbeing allows leaders to understand their team better and be more empathetic and connected to them. For example, 10 people who joined BetterMe right from the start are still a part of the team years later.

    3. Leading effectively in challenging times

    Leaders who prioritize their stability possess the skills needed to navigate difficult situations. They can manage stress, make informed decisions, and stay composed under pressure. Resilience enables them to guide their teams through challenging times, inspiring confidence and giving energy to overcome fear.

    Making wellness a priority: Let’s talk numbers

    Prioritizing wellness and resilience in leadership development is not just a good idea on paper. It has proven to yield substantial returns on investment (ROI) for organizations. Multiple case studies give insight into workplace wellness’s positive, tangible benefits to employee engagement, productivity and overall business growth.

    Let’s take research conducted by Gallup, a leading analytics and advisory company, as an example. Its study reveals a strong correlation between employee engagement and wellbeing initiatives. Companies with high employee engagement experience significant benefits, reporting 41% lower absenteeism rates and 17% higher productivity. These findings show a direct correlation between such targeted initiatives and business performance. Research proves it’s an important metric to start taking seriously.

    BetterMe, with its headquarters in a country amid war and crisis, provides a compelling case study of how prioritizing wellness and resilience in leadership development can lead to exceptional growth, even in challenging circumstances. Despite the adversity, the BetterMe team members demonstrated innovation and creativity in providing solutions for customers worldwide. As a result, the company experienced significant financial and headcount growth in 2022, reaching an impressive 20%.

    This case again shows that crises can be both tests and opportunities for growth. It only emphasizes how organizations handle challenging situations. By investing in leadership development programs prioritizing wellness and resilience, companies can equip their leaders with the skills to navigate crises effectively, manage their energy better (not time), and drive business growth.

    Related: Why Mental Health and Well-Being Should Be Your Top Recruitment and Retention Priority

    Corporate wellness: Create a business case

    As the topic of corporate wellness continues to grow, organizations are seeking ways to measure the impact of wellness tools on leadership effectiveness. Seeing the evidence can help them realize the potential benefits and make an informed decision toward that first step.

    One effective way to measure the impact of wellness tools on leadership effectiveness is through ROI analysis. According to Deloitte, companies implementing wellness programs for three or more years achieved a median yearly ROI of $2.18 CA (estimated $1.65 USD). We cannot argue with numbers — the benefits are evident.

    As the CEO of BetterMe, I myself can serve as an example for all these findings. Through consultations with various companies, I have observed a considerable demand for reliable and engaging corporate wellness programs. Simply put, wellness is a hot topic in the business world. With a potential boost of over 50%, it becomes clear that the returns on investing in wellness are worth serious consideration.

    Seeing the indisputable benefits of integrating the employees’ wellbeing as one of the business priorities, a few industry professionals can remain indifferent. Whether you’re a manager, a business, or a team leader – hop on that train. Explore new possibilities for growing a prosperous, healthy workforce by all means to build better businesses.

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    Victoria Repa

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  • How to Stay Humble as a Successful Self-Made Entrepreneur | Entrepreneur

    How to Stay Humble as a Successful Self-Made Entrepreneur | Entrepreneur

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    Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

    The pathway to entrepreneurial success is often marked by relentless hard work, unwavering spirituality, and long and established relationships. Yet, these pillars can swiftly crumble under the weight of ego and complacency. Regardless of whether your bank account has amassed a fortune, your company holds a significant valuation, or you’ve catapulted into the high earners’ bracket, the challenge remains the same: How do you stay grounded amidst such prosperity?

    From my own entrepreneurial journey as Founder, President and CEO of 1031 Crowdfunding, here are some actionable insights that have kept me humble in the face of success.

    Related: How to Cultivate Humility as an Entrepreneur (and Why You Should)

    Stay grounded

    For some, staying grounded might mean meditation or maybe reading thought-provoking literature. For me, my faith is what drove me to get up every day and continue to try and make my business work, not just for myself and my employees but for my family as well. Knowing that the work I was doing in starting 1031 Crowdfunding was for a greater purpose propelled me forward.

    If you have trouble staying focused or grounded, I recommend trying more exercise. Even in my busiest weeks as a business owner, I never stop focusing on health. Success is more than not being a quitter on your business; it also means not quitting on yourself and your health. Health, life, business and relationships are all tied together, as everything is connected.

    Appreciate those around you

    Success doesn’t manifest in a vacuum. There’s an entire ecosystem of support that elevates you — your family, your employees and even those who serve you. I’m reminded of this when I take a look at the team I have built at my company, as well as every time my family and I walk into a luxury store or a car dealership in Orange County. The smiles, the assistance, the warmth — we should never take these gestures for granted. After you wind up successful and in a very different place from where you first started, never lose gratitude. When someone opens a door for you, literally or figuratively, take time to thank them for their kindness.

    Help the community

    Having a successful business provides an incredible opportunity to give back. Whether it’s through charitable donations, sponsoring local events or mentoring budding entrepreneurs, investing in your community not only enhances its well-being but also keeps you connected to the bigger picture of helping others.

    While growing up in Puerto Rico, New York City and Southern California, I experienced firsthand some of the difficulties life can bring. My faith in God pulled me through, and now I believe in paying it forward by getting involved with local goodwill efforts in Orange County. For younger entrepreneurs who might be struggling financially while building a new business, volunteering with any free time you might have, even if it’s just one day a year, is a great substitute for giving any sort of donation or monetary pledge. It’s also a manageable way to make a small impact and feel good about the work you’re doing, which serves not only those you are helping but also your own self-esteem and self-worth.

    Related: Why Humility Plays an Important Role in an Entrepreneur’s Life

    Find a financial advisor

    Staying humble also means being prudent. An expert financial advisor can provide invaluable insights into managing, growing and preserving your wealth. Whether you are a serial entrepreneur or a first-time business owner, leading and managing a business is challenging and expensive. By allowing someone else to guide you, you admit that you don’t have all the answers, fostering humility.

    Many entrepreneurs are convinced they can save money by handling their own finances instead of paying an advisor, but the truth is, most don’t have the time to properly do research, invest and watch the markets each day. So, relying on an accredited advisor is key to freeing up time so you can focus on building your business and attracting more customers or clients.

    Embrace your roots

    Irrespective of the heights you might attain, it’s essential to remember where you began. Your roots, your initial struggles, the first taste of success — all these moments helped shape your journey. Clinging to these memories ensures that success doesn’t blur your vision or lead you astray.

    Knowing where I came from has created an appreciation of where my team and I are today and reminds me that without the clients who entrusted us in the very beginning, we would not have been able to achieve what we have.

    Bringing it all together

    In conclusion, while the world may celebrate your achievements and accolades, remaining humble ensures these accomplishments don’t overshadow your true essence. After all, true success lies not just in the success achieved but in the legacy and character we leave behind, as business owners, employers, family members and friends.

    Growth only happens when you challenge yourself, so I encourage fellow and aspiring entrepreneurs to prepare for the ride ahead and remember to stay grounded once you achieve your dreams.

    Related: Humility: The Missing Ingredient to Your Success

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    Edward Fernandez

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