As work gets demanding, many CEOs take a quick break to engage in activities that help them unwind, declutter and bounce back
Representational Image
Running a company is not easy. No wonder most chief executive officers (CEOs) of big companies work 24x7 and are reeling under tremendous pressure. However, many CEOs are now trying to strike a work-life balance by taking small breaks. Many are hitting the pause button to unwind, pursue a hobby, take a wellness break, and then bounce back to work. Experts suggest that regular breaks help those working in high-pressure roles to enhance their cognitive functioning and make the office culture more conducive and work-friendly.
RESET-REWIND
Dhiraj Tejwani, Chief Executive Officer aka CEO, Youth Organisation in Defence of Animals (YODA) calls it “Reset and rejuvenate.” He claims that small breaks help him to step back and clear the clutter. Work pressure can lead to burnout, thereby affecting one’s creativity, productivity, and strategic thinking. Dhiraj opines that disconnecting from such situations is as imperative as jumping back into them with the same gusto and energy. Disconnecting allows high-performing individuals to revisit the same situation with a newer perspective. “My go-to activities involve long walks, going for a good swim, or simply spending time in solitude.” Moments of introspection often help a person to recharge.
INEVITABLE GRIND
While CEOs are the ultimate power in their companies, most of them put in 15-17 hours of heavy work. A few years ago, car lovers and media persons were flabbergasted when Harald Krüger, former CEO of BMW fainted during a German motor show.
Udit Goenka, Founder & CEO of TinyCheque, admits that taking a break from a tedious schedule as such is not even a distant thought in the first few years of any start-up. However, he believes that it is important to slow down a bit and focus on mental well-being. Udit shares how the last 12 months have been extremely exhausting for him but he had little to no choice but to get going. “I got back into music. I would spend at least an hour and a half dedicated to my health and an hour with family along with getting a minimum of eight hours of sleep.” This small change has been a positive game-changer.
DIVERSE PURSUITS
It isn’t always about the mini breaks between work that prove to do wonders but an active pursuit of some activity that helps keep the mind and body engaged. Many CEOs take mini breaks by reading books, pursuing a hobby, engaging in sports, or adapting to holistic modes of therapy and meditation. Dhiraj shares his fondness for swimming and table tennis. “I truly believe that anyone in a leadership role must engage in a passion or an activity that not only keeps them fit and healthy but also acts like fuel to their drive and determination.”
Dhiraj points out that wellness retreats too are a safe haven for high-performing individuals, who otherwise may not think of taking breaks in their busy schedules.
Many wellness retreats cater specifically to CEOs, CMOs, and others who work in high-pressure roles. “The most valuable lesson I took away from these retreats is the importance of discipline,” says Dhiraj, adding, “Growth and scaling are impossible without discipline.”
KEEP IT SIMPLE
The idea of CEOs taking breaks isn’t to add to the already existing stress but to unwind, declutter, and jump back on track. Such breaks serve as pathways and building blocks for the smother running of body, mind, and soul. Not to forget the business part. Udit quips, “It’s all about not feeling exhausted or burnt out, that’s important.” After all, the CEO is the internal and external face of a company in good times and bad!
( Source : Deccan Chronicle )
Next Story
