Nov 22, 2011
A few days ago I posted a question on my Linkedin page: How does your regular fitness routine affect your work life?
Much to my happy surprise I received feedback that I feel compelled to share today! While I try to keep the focus of my blog Engineering & Ops Work & Job Placement – related, I just think the relativity of physical fitness to happiness and productivity in the workplace deserves it’s own post.
Here at TxMQ we pride ourselves on being a “healthy workplace” – you’ll see our fridge packed with Chobani Greek Yogurt (high in protein, yum!), veggies, fruits, nuts, and whole wheat everything. We try to keep a loose, lower stress hierarchical structure that focuses more on self-accountability than micro-management because we realize that our industry is STRESSFUL ENOUGH!
Additionally, we each have the option to have a gym membership paid for by TxMQ. We try to improve our overall health to improve our overall performance and job satisfaction.
BUT ENOUGH ABOUT US – I hope I haven’t made you jealous!
I want to highlight two of the responses I received that really stuck with me!
Orman is a candidate of mine – he and I have been in touch regarding his job search in this difficult economy. Orman took his obvious love of physical activity and put it to work when he knew he would need the strength and endurance to just deal with LIFE when the recession hit. He very literally conditioned his body to deal with the stress of what he knew was going to be a tough time. REALLY NEAT STUFF.
A few years ago the recession of 2008 started hitting us. I had the “genius” foresight to realize things were going to soon get real tough and that I should up my game a few notches. I was going to have to do more with less; “run faster and jump higher” along with all those other clichés.
How was I going to do all this extra work in less time, and more quickly?
My solution was to increase my efficiency. I had to increase my strength, stamina and mental toughness. I accomplished this through modifying my diet, adding more cardio and increasing my weight training.
First thing every morning I would be on my wind trainer (an indoor racing bicycle training / similar spinning) for 30 – 45 minutes. This was great because I accomplished at least three very important things early in my day: 1)I focused and mentally organized my day, 2 & 3) I watched the news and got a workout in, thus clearing my head as I rode.
When I arrived at work I was ready, wide awake, focused and organized. With the right food and vitamins, this feeling lasted all day.
To me, Orman’s strategic use of physical activity is incredible. I can corroborate his story too. Personally, I go to a 1 hour spinning class every Monday, Wednesday and Friday (shout out Gold’s Gym!!), and on those days when I arrive at work my mind is sharp and I am literally “on the go” all day long – not to mention I sleep like a BABY!
The next story I want to highlight is one of my co-worker, and long time staffing industry buff, Hank Williams. He was diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis at a young age – which is something Hank attributes to his poor health lifestyle. Over the course of 10 years he tried multiple medication regiments, and nothing really helped Hank in any significant way.
He felt as though doctors were treating his symptoms – not “Hank”. He finally took matters into his own hands and did a lot of research on the medical benefits of a healthy lifestyle. He took it upon himself to make a commitment to a healthy diet and routine exercise, and the rest is history.
He increased his energy and happiness, he restored balance and has drastically reduced his arthritic flare ups. Not only is Hank a heavy hitter in the staffing/recruitment industry, but the man has this incredible natural energy and aura that inspires everyone to do the work they love, think outside of the box, and live a healthy life. Hank leads by example here at TxMQ – both as a proponent to living a healthful life, ensuring that people strive for a good work / life balance, but also working hard and creating record-setting results in business.
A good workout can do wonders for all aspects of your life. I’ve found that it clears your mind and spirit, and gives you the physical and mental energy to tackle whatever comes at you. I will share that it is not only the physical activity and exercise that are important to adopting a health lifestyle – equally as important is WHAT YOU PUT IN YOUR MOUTH! It is so true what is said, “You are what you eat”! Personally, I have adopted a whole foods regimen and have completely cut out processed food. The results of my daily physical activity and my healthful diet have been nothing less than life saving.
I’m no nutritionist, and I’m certainly NOT a doctor, nor am I a Buddhist philosopher – but I hope that I have been able to highlight a universal truth today: Your body is a temple – treat it as such, and you will be rewarded with priceless treasures – clarity of thought, energy, speed, one-ness between body and spirit, and peace. Do with those gifts what you will, but I can 99% proof positively guarantee that your work life and performance will improve!
