HEALTH over Hustle
Image: Aldric Chen (Roger Hargreaves)

HEALTH over Hustle

To hustle or not to hustle, that is the question. But it’s so much more than that, so let’s get into why HEALTH OVER HUSTLE is so important.

I absolutely believe it is possible to chase your dreams and take action on those goals whilst prioritizing your health.

Hey, I’d even say your health comes first because without it you won’t even be able to work extra hours, build your startup, continuously put yourself out there as a creator, or juggle your career with life, marriage, kids, etc.

Hustle culture carries the belief of the more you do, the harder you work, the more valuable you are, and it’s the “only” way to succeed. Perhaps you’re taking pride in your busyness or lack of sleep? You might subconsciously be chasing a trophy?

This culture in workplaces often sets up an environment of fear, comparison, shame, and guilt. It is often forgotten that we are all different, we all have different goals, and are on different journeys. We respond and work differently. We need to listen to our individual story!

What’s with the extremes? 

Where is the long game, the sustainable success? Because if you don’t have your health… you won’t even have a business or career.

I get it -  you’re the passionate kind and you can do ANYTHING… That’s right, just not all at once.

……….....

How can we set ourselves up for success:

You are unique, and what works for you will be special to you, which will reflect in your work. This is not giving you a pass to believe you are a superhero surviving on 4 hours of sleep. No. 

Self-Mastery is about self-awareness, knowing your strengths, weaknesses, values, purpose, triggers, and goals.

Reflect on your foundational habits:

What does your sleep look like, your exercise routine, your morning intentions, nutritional habits, rest time, etc? Adopting a solid routine will optimize your mind & body so you can perform at your highest level. A joyful level, for the long game.

So give this some thought…

Write down what you need to stop doing, and take action on that. Then introduce one new habit at a time, and keep yourself accountable or find someone who will support this.

Every decision, thought, and action you make compounds and affects the quality of your life.

Set yourself up for success each morning. One can even argue that intention starts the night before! How’s that for superpowers?!


What exactly is a flow state:

It means the mind's usual chatter fades away and you drop into a non-distracted zone. For example, when you are immersed in an activity, you reach a state of focus where you are completely absorbed and engrossed in your work.

Everyone is different, so this might be 90 min time blocks for you. Or you take a longer lunch break, and that afternoon flies by whilst you are in the zone. It’s about listening to your body, and leaning into when you are most productive, as your whole being is involved. 

What does that look like for you?

How can you increase your workflow?

  • Set realistic and achievable goals
  • Eliminate distractions
  • Start with the biggest task
  • Add an element of challenge
  • Try time blocking
  • Choose something you enjoy
  • No multitasking
  • Morning meditation


Why we need to rest:

To prevent burnout you have to take a proactive approach and seek what helps you to recover and recharge. Rest and sleep are two different things, but both are equally important to your mental, emotional, and physical health. Taking time off will also allow you to break through creative roadblocks, and work more efficiently.

We all have unique ways of relaxing, so find what works best for you. 

Questions to reflect on can be; 

How often do you take time to rest? When was the last time you set boundaries or said no? Are you present or shaming yourself/ feeling guilty while resting?

Just a few of the benefits from resting…

  • Stress and anxiety reduction
  • Increased energy levels
  • Decreased blood pressure
  • Improved mood and immune health
  • Greater productivity
  • Stronger cardiovascular system
  • Improved cognitive function

…………….

More and more leaders are understanding the benefits of Mindfulness and how it supports their workflow. A simple definition is, being present and fully engaged with whatever you’re doing in the moment- free from distractions or judgment, and aware of thoughts & feelings without getting caught up in them.

Last week I received a testimonial from Travis, entrepreneur, he recently started incorporating Mindfulness into his business and life.

“I just wanted to share some personal success with you. I’ve really enjoyed trying to implement the Mindful Workday tips. Love the 3 item to-do list, so I’ve been making a new tab and just moving only 3 items over. This month I’ve had not my biggest, but my most consistent month to date in business”.

He used practices that welcomed focus and clarity, instead of pushing harder and adding more to his plate.

You have probably heard the saying, less is more ;)

……………

Now…

Hello Healthy Eats:

This month is a little different as I wanted to share specific brain foods, snacks, and smoothies that will fuel & support your focus, creativity, and decision making.

Brain foods: Fatty fish (salmon, trout, sardines) are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, Berries (blueberries) are packed with antioxidants, Turmeric & Ginger which also have antioxidant benefits and are anti-inflammatory.

Other great foods that I recommend are Avocado, Broccoli, Black rice, Kale, Grass-fed meat, Green tea, Pumpkin seeds, Walnuts, Oranges, and yes even Dark Chocolate.

SMOOTHIE RECIPES:

1/2 cup Passion Fruit 

1 Tbsp Organic Spirulina powder

1 Tbsp Coconut oil

1/2- 1 Banana

A "quarter coin" size of fresh Ginger

Approx 1 cup Almond Milk/or Water.

Dash of Cinnamon.

..............

1/2 cup Blueberries

1 Tbsp Organic Pea protein powder (or plant-based protein powder)

1 Tbsp Almond butter

1/2- 1 Banana

A "quarter coin" size of fresh Ginger

Approx 1 cup Almond Milk/or Water.

Dash of Cinnamon.


Speaking of passion and reaping the fruits of our one very special life...

Life isn’t all work, even if we are passionate and committed human beings going after our dreams. 

Allow time for play, relaxation, and spontaneity. Don’t be afraid to slow down in between, as this creates space and allows new ideas/ new energy to form.

And remember, instilling a new routine doesn’t happen overnight. You are only human, so give yourself grace and time to adapt.

HEALTH OVER HUSTLE.

……………

When I’m not actively creating “Sustainable Success” newsletter, or on daily nature walks, I help creators & leaders reduce stress, prevent burnout and embody SUSTAINABLE success. Gain peace & greater well-being so you can thrive and lead with presence.

If you want to gain clarity, presence, and master your energy, send me a DM with “workflow” and I will share the 1:1 bespoke coaching program with you.

To learn more about Burnout Prevention and Workplace Wellness training, email me at info@wellnessbyrebecca.com

High-achievers high five* Here's to YOUR FLOW!!

In wellness,

Rebecca

#wellnessbyrebecca

Follow this hashtag for more stress management insights & burnout prevention tips.

Brendan Curley

Technical Business Development/Sales

2y

Very well written and accurate. If you don't have your health you have nothing - physical, mental and spiritual.

Tuomo Vauhkonen

Performance | Mindset | Ultra Endurance 🏃

2y

High achievers high five for you too Rebecca! Great article and reflection on hustle and health.. ;)

Candace Rhodes

✨Health & Medical Writer | 🧪 Medical Copywriter | 🏋️♀️ Fitness + Nutrition Content Writer | MS in Biochemistry | 10 Yrs Biotech Experience

2y

Hustle culture can be seen and acted versus something like patience and flow is harder to demonstrate. We praise hustle because it's action. I've been caught up in hustle and it can lead to burnout. Rebecca O'Brien ❤️🧠

Adam Laurie 🎬

Helping Tech Brands & Entrepreneurs Showcase Their Expertise in Under 2 Minutes, So They Can Scale To 7 Figures and Beyond. Product Story Videos that Convert Sales & Investment. £20million+ Generated. 🚀 🔥

2y

I'm a creative Rebecca and love to be free to do what I want when I want but it doesn't work. Setting a routine each day that goes against all my instincts has actually been beneficial and I get more done.

James Leaver 詹姆斯

🚀Helping Chinese Sales Directors and Their Teams Get International Customers by Improving Sales and Marketing Skills.

2y

Excellent article Rebecca - I especially like the brain foods part!

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