Why strive for a better balance between work and fitness?
Put simply, all work and no fitness is bad for your health, and could very likely lead to higher stress and a shorter life. Period. That’s the truth, and it’s a long-term mindset. Weight loss, a faster 3-mile run time, six-pack abs…those are all nice, but they bring us back to a short-term mindset. I want longer, and better quality living for you. That’s my goal.
Here’s another example of a long-term mindset that I’ve come to appreciate more, especially since having children. I think about the example I’m setting…for those around me, for my family, and especially for my children. Do I want them to grow up thinking that life is all about work? I want them to understand the importance of balance, and the importance of health. They will understand this mainly through the example that we set as parents.
As a senior leader in an organization, I also think about the fact that many others in the organization are actually looking at me and my ability to balance (or not) and trying to determine whether they want to strive to reach the position that I or their supervisors may hold. If I paint an imbalanced picture, what’s the incentive for these junior members to continue? In many ways, the health and future of the organization depend on the example that I set as the leader.
A long-term view allows you to consider these types of things.
Think long-term.
A Lack of Progress Is Feedback