What keeps you going?

Especially in the post Covid Era, as business cycles, macro economic & geo political scenarios swing like the weather of London, do you think it becomes crucial to hold onto something which keeps you going, the one thing that is not affected by the unpredictable changes around your professional life. Like a rope you hold on to cross a stormy river in the reality of the VUCA world.

Something which gives you the freedom to express without being judged, something which helps you to blank out for those moments and recharge your batteries. Something which helps to live better, physically and mentally.

Do you play a sport?

Playing a sport to unwind & recharge is one of the most effective ways to keep you grounded and thrive in a VUCA world. Playing a sport actually builds character, helps you to evolve into looking at everything around you more positively.

I have tried to pen down some of the areas that I personally got benefited by playing a high intensity sport like long distance running.

• Mastering skills: Learning new skills and improving your performance in a sport can boost your confidence in your abilities. Seeing your hard work pay off can be incredibly rewarding.

• Resilience: Learning to overcome challenges, persevere through tough workouts, and bounce back from losses builds mental strength and resilience.
• Integrity: Fair play, respect for opponents, and following the rules are essential values emphasized in most sports. This fosters honesty, integrity, and ethical behavior.
• Discipline: Achieving success in any sport requires dedication, discipline, and the ability to set and work towards personal goals.
• Communication: Effective communication is crucial for teamwork and success in many sports. You learn to communicate clearly, express your ideas, listen to others & hone your influencing skills.
• Analytical thinking: Strategy, tactics, and game analysis are fundamental in many sports. This encourages critical thinking, problem-solving, and the ability to make quick decisions under pressure.
• Keeps you healthy & fit: With exponential increase of lifestyle diseases starting at a younger age, playing a sport and playing it hard helps you to stay fit and forces you to relook at your diet basket.
• Make new friends: It helps you to diversify your social circle & make new friends. Friends often introduce you to new experiences, hobbies, and perspectives. This can broaden your horizons, stimulate your mind, and keep your life interesting.

The journey has been incredibly enriching & rewarding. Let 2024 be the year you pick up a new sport and turn an exciting chapter in your life. Wishing you and your family a happy, prosperous, healthier and fitter new year.