In May of 2022 I joined the entrepreneurs club and started my own business. As someone who pays a lot of attention to mindset, I quickly noticed a common theme amongst many top entrepreneurs: they take good care of their bodies in order to manage their minds.. From getting enough sleep and staying hydrated to boosting your endorphins with workouts, it is clear that if you want to perform at your best, committing to your health is a great way to get you there.
As someone who can struggle with accountability when it comes to fitness, I knew having a personal trainer would help me stay on track. In August of 2022 I reached out to Craig at Precision Athletics. He set me up with a program that would help me achieve my goal of improving my fitness level with the added perk of reducing stress. I began training three times a week for 30 minutes with Craig, Pepe and Josee. It was a game-changer.
As I started my new entrepreneurial journey, the commitment to prioritizing my health proved to be immensely helpful. I could walk into a training session feeling overwhelmed and leave feeling energized and ready to tackle anything. After all, it’s easy to get completely enveloped by your business, especially as you start out. It takes time and focus and can be all-consuming. Knowing when to step away is one of the most important habits you can form.
As someone who values both the physical and mental benefits of working out, it’s easy to see why exercise is an amazing tool for entrepreneurs. Here are some of the top reasons working out is good for entrepreneurs:
Increased Energy and Focus
Regular exercise can boost energy levels and enhance mental focus which is crucial for entrepreneurs who need to stay productive and alert throughout the day. A study published in the Journal of Occupational Health Psychology found that employees who engaged in regular exercise reported greater energy and focus levels than those who were sedentary.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
Running a business can be stressful and overwhelming but exercise is a proven way to reduce stress and anxiety. A systematic review of 29 studies published in the Journal of Psychiatric Research found that exercise is an effective treatment for reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety. Physical activity triggers the release of endorphins, which can help to improve mood and decrease feelings of anxiety and depression.
Improved Creativity
Entrepreneurs need to think creatively to develop innovative solutions to the challenges they face in their businesses. Research published in the journal, Frontiers in Human Neuroscience, found that exercise can enhance divergent thinking, a key aspect of creativity. The study found that walking, in particular, can boost creativity.
Better Sleep Quality
Entrepreneurs often face long days and may struggle to get a good night’s sleep. Regular exercise can help to improve sleep quality making it easier to feel rested and ready to take on the day. When people are prioritizing their health, sleep is often the missing link. It carries so many health benefits, from repair and regeneration of cells, tissues and organs, to boosting the immune system, reducing inflammation and promoting healing. Sleep also plays a crucial role in brain function, including learning, memory consolidation, and problem-solving. Getting adequate sleep each night helps improve concentration, focus, and decision-making abilities. A systematic review of 66 studies published in Sports Medicine found that exercise can improve sleep quality and increase total sleep time. The study found that exercise is a safe and effective way to improve sleep in people with insomnia.
Increased Confidence
Confidence is essential for taking calculated risks, making bold decisions, and pursuing new opportunities in business. Exercise has been found to improve self-esteem and self-confidence. Research published in the International Journal of Sport Psychology found that regular exercise can lead to a positive body image and improved self-worth.
I can say firsthand that my personal training has provided these benefits to me. While I build my business, no matter how busy I get, my training sessions won’t be up for negotiation. I am grateful to be training with the Precision team again, knowing they will continue to be by my side while I achieve my goals.
To my fellow Vancouver entrepreneurs, I encourage you to make physical activity a regular part of your routine to maximize your productivity and achieve greater business success.
Nikki Hedstrom is the founder of KindCo Consulting Inc., a Vancouver-based brand engagement consultancy.
