The FORT LIFE. Parenthood - The True Impact Of Career Choice In Your Children & Relationships

June 2024. Vol 29

Humanly written by: Franc?ois Damian Aristhomene Martinez

CVO & Founder FORT International

Editorial: Parenthood - The True Impact Of Career Choice In Your Children & Relationships

As the professional tides begin to change in our early 20’s, and personal responsibilities begin to mount, many of us find ourselves trying to find a place in the professional world by selecting and sticking to predetermined career paths we once thought were the holy grail of professionalism, and a clear lane into the highway of success.

As I now have entered a third decade in my own field, I have experienced some necessary hardships and learned valuable lessons, not just from my own mistakes, but also from watching others succumb to social pressures, which easily led to frustrations and fractures with those closest to them.?

As money is the universal transactional tool which determines the speed and agility you move within the world, it is widely understood that without it, life can be extremely difficult. What many of us fail to realize is that in lieu of financial success, we often sacrifice a lot more than we bargained for, including our happiness as well as that of our partners and loved ones, our children’s stability, and our mental and physical health.

I have seen first hand so many ambitious professionals with lots of materials end up in an empty home. Why? Because attention was not given to that which was the initial reason for the quest in the first place.?

Here are some tips which have helped me not only enjoy my journey, but also enjoy those around me, as well as my career.?

1. Learn to say no and question everything;

Not every career path,? promotion, offer, is a good one or the one for you.?

There are different stages in any career.

Novice, advanced and expert (I like the word seasoned).

In order to become an expert in any field you must go through the first 2 stages, which I can safely say takes at least 7 years each. But in order to endure, you must like what you do, it must stimulate your brain, and provide you with growth opportunities both internal and external.?

The novice stage is the most crucial stage in anyone’s journey, as this is where you will define what you’ll do the next 40 years of your life.?

Sadly too many of us follow a path designed for us, not by us, and by the time we get to the advanced stage, we are now in our 30’s with more wants than actual needs, and looming financial responsibilities in the form of marriage and children. More Bill$$$.

This is when the social pressures begin to mount, and if you are not happy with your profession, the one you chose at the novice stage, the emotional foundation to a happy life will certainly begin to crumble, and you will cope with that unhappiness in various ways. For some it will be alcohol or other drugs, for others it will be bad company, but regardless of the coping mechanism, others and other areas of your life will be affected.

This is why we must learn to be comfortable saying no, especially if something in front of us doesn’t check all the boxes. Only when something looks good, sounds good, and feels good, should you then move forward. If one of these three is missing, question why, and do so loudly.? Question yourself constantly and that which lies in front of you.

Not everything that shines is gold.

Furthermore, be selective with your Yes, and apply it only to things which make you happy or don’t take away from it. It will give you sanity in the long run.

2. Maintain the ego in check.

Do not lose sight of your priorities as this is fundamental to a well balanced life.

We spend so much time chasing what seems bigger and better from far away, only to later realize that all that energy spent in said chase could have been employed in a more productive manner by investing in something or someone with much more valuable fruit… ie: Your personal relationships and your children!

What good is a big house, nice cars, and a ton of professional respect with your peers and colleagues, if the people you coexist with at home can’t stand the sight of you because they simply just don’t know you. That’s a lonely life.

3. Accept the difference between wants and needs:

Having a clear understanding of what you need, what you want, and why you want it is extremely crucial to be able to make the best decisions for you and those that matter most. We often want a lot more than what we need, so begin to question the why behind the wants.??

Your wants demand money, resources, and most importantly time, so do not spread yourself too thin.

As a father to 4 children ages 29 through 15, I can assure you that there is no greater feeling than being held by those we love and being an integral part of their growth.

Life is but a blink. If we are lucky, we will have 73 summers and every one after that is nothing but a gift. So define early what’s important to you, work hard to obtain it, but don’t sacrifice the other gifts life has granted you.?

Value the ones you claim to love. They are there to help bring the best out of you, and when making sacrifices, truly question the reasons behind it and make sure your decisions are not made alone.

A great career choice complements your life. A bad one can easily destroy it.

So choose wisely and remain steadfast in your principles and convictions.?

The last chapter of your life will be the best one yet.

Summer in Full Swing (staying active and productive)

As summer begins, it's essential to find ways to stay active and productive, balancing relaxation with achievement. The longer days and warmer weather offer a perfect opportunity to engage in outdoor activities that boost both physical and mental well-being. Consider incorporating morning walks, evening runs, or weekend hikes into your routine. These activities not only improve fitness but also provide a much-needed break from the usual indoor environment, rejuvenating your mind for the tasks ahead.

Maintaining productivity during summer requires a strategic approach. Set clear, achievable goals for the season, and break them down into smaller tasks. This method keeps you focused and motivated, even when the allure of summer distractions is strong. Utilize tools like to-do lists, project management apps, and time-blocking techniques to manage your workload efficiently. Remember to allocate time for both work and leisure, ensuring you enjoy the summer while still progressing toward your objectives.

Embracing real-life practices can also enhance both your productivity and well-being. For instance, incorporating short, hourly breaks for stretching can significantly improve focus and reduce the physical strain associated with prolonged sitting. Simple stretches, lasting just a minute or so, can rejuvenate your muscles, boost circulation, and refresh your mind, allowing you to return to your tasks with renewed energy. These small, frequent breaks are an effective way to maintain a healthy work-life balance and keep your body and mind in optimal condition.

Finally, staying connected with colleagues and friends is crucial during the summer months. Virtual coffee breaks, online team-building activities, and social media interactions can help maintain a sense of community and support. Sharing your summer experiences and tips for staying active and productive can inspire others and foster a collaborative spirit. By staying engaged and motivated, you can make the most of the summer season, achieving a healthy balance between work and leisure.

"Remember to allocate time for both work and leisure, ensuring you enjoy the summer while still progressing towards your objectives."

Juneteenth?- Honoring Freedom Day

Juneteenth, observed on June 19th, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans in the United States. It marks the day in 1865 when Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced the end of the Civil War, proclaiming freedom for all enslaved individuals. This significant event occurred more than two years after President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, highlighting the long and arduous journey toward liberty and justice for African Americans.

Juneteenth is a time to reflect on the profound impact of slavery and to celebrate the resilience, culture, and contributions of African Americans. Across the country, communities honor this day with various activities, including parades, cultural performances, educational events, and family gatherings. These celebrations are not only a tribute to the past but also a call to continue the fight against racial injustice and inequality.

For businesses and organizations, Juneteenth presents an opportunity to promote diversity and inclusion within the workplace. Acknowledging and celebrating this day can foster a deeper understanding of the historical struggles and achievements of African Americans. Companies can host educational webinars, share resources on African American history, and encourage participation in local Juneteenth events. This not only supports the community but also enriches the organizational culture by highlighting the importance of diversity.

Moreover, Juneteenth serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for social justice and equality. By commemorating this day, we honor the progress made and recognize the work that still lies ahead. It’s a time for both celebration and reflection, encouraging us to strive for a society where freedom and equality are truly realized for all. As we celebrate Juneteenth, let’s commit to fostering a more inclusive and equitable world, both within our communities and workplaces.

KSA Student Feature

We are thrilled to spotlight Tamyia Sims, who will begin her academic journey at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NCAT) this fall. With a passion for healthcare, she aims to earn her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) at NCAT, paving the way for a fulfilling career in nursing.

Tamyia aspires to work as either a travel nurse or a neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) nurse, driven by a profound desire to make a difference in the lives of patients and their families. Her journey is guided by the mantra, “She turned her can'ts into cans and her dreams into plans,” reflecting her determination and ambition.

We are confident that Tamyia will thrive at NCAT and beyond, making significant contributions to the field of nursing. Congratulations, Tamyia, and best of luck in all your future endeavors!

Your Gut! What it says about you.

Gut health is crucial for overall well-being, profoundly influencing both bodily functions and brain function. One key point is the role of the gut microbiome, a complex community of microorganisms in our digestive tract. These microorganisms aid in digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune system support. A balanced gut microbiome helps maintain a healthy digestive system, preventing issues like bloating, constipation, and diarrhea, thereby contributing to overall physical health. Additionally, a healthy gut can reduce inflammation throughout the body, lower the risk of chronic diseases such as obesity and diabetes, and even improve skin health.

Another critical aspect is the gut-brain axis, a bidirectional communication network linking the gut and the brain. This connection means that gut health can significantly impact mental health. An imbalance in gut bacteria can affect the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which regulates mood, sleep, and appetite. Consequently, poor gut health has been associated with mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, and even cognitive decline. The gut also produces and responds to other neuroactive compounds that influence brain function and behavior.

Furthermore, emerging research suggests that a healthy gut can enhance cognitive functions such as learning and memory. Therefore, maintaining a healthy gut through a balanced diet rich in fiber, fermented foods, and probiotics, along with regular exercise and stress management, is essential for both physical and mental well-being. Investing in gut health can lead to improved energy levels, better mood regulation, and a stronger immune system, ultimately enhancing the quality of life.

Moreover, the gut plays a crucial role in the body's detoxification processes. The liver, which works closely with the gut, filters out toxins and harmful substances from the bloodstream. A healthy gut aids this detoxification by ensuring efficient elimination of waste products through regular bowel movements. Additionally, the gut lining acts as a barrier, preventing harmful bacteria and toxins from entering the bloodstream and causing systemic inflammation. Maintaining gut integrity through adequate hydration, a nutrient-rich diet, and avoiding excessive intake of processed foods and antibiotics helps support this protective barrier. Thus, a healthy gut not only supports digestion and mental health but also plays a vital role in protecting the body from environmental and dietary toxins, underscoring the importance of gut health for comprehensive wellness.

Sales - Immerse Your Guests in Positive Energy with The Ritual of Karma

Introduce your guests to the luxurious Ritual of Karma collection, designed to infuse their stay with the uplifting energy of summer all year round. This line, featuring lotions in 30 ml and 300 ml sizes, combines the soothing scents of white tea and sacred lotus flower to enhance mood and promote well-being.

Highlights:

• Uplifting Aroma: White tea and sacred lotus flower blend for a serene experience.
• Well-Being Focus: Promotes happiness in body, mind, and soul.
• Customizable Options: Tailor the packaging to reflect your brand’s identity.

Discover more about the Ritual of Karma collection here.