Why your favorite restaurant has lost its energy: it’s not what you think.

A note to my former self:

I joined an industry that was built on fun. I worked along side some of the best friends I’ve ever had. I’ve sacrificed my personal life for the good of the team. I went the extra mile to insure a great profit and loss statement. I was promoted through the ranks. In the eyes of my peers, I was a force to be reckoned with.

Deep inside I knew something was not right in my world. Those friendships are but great memories and I no longer have time for social gatherings. My personal life is a collection of missed celebrations. That extra mile is now an expected mile.

Could it be the rules you live by?

1.Always look your best.

As the years roll by, I may not notice but my pounds add up. I always try to look my best. When I was younger, I always hit the gym, late at night or first thing in the morning. Being fit meant being confident! I believe “Like it or not people judge you by how you look.” Somehow I gave this up. I found better things to do with my time, like sleep, and watch Netflix. I never thought twice about it. Until one day looking in the mirror, I saw my father staring back at me. How did I age so quickly? It seems like overnight. I was old, tired, and out of shape. I just didn't have the energy or the strength I used to depend on.

2.There is no time for sickness. 

In twenty-five years, I’ve never missed a shift that I didn’t “owe” someone else. If you miss work you are a slacker, and slackers don’t get promoted. You will get punished for that sick day on your next schedule. I am fortunate to have good health. I tell myself I don’t get sick; when the bug is going around work, I just over medicate myself to get through the day. The worst thing about it is everyone knows you are killing yourself to be there. I can see it in their eyes, they are helpless to do anything about it. Without you there is no plan. 

You need to add these to your list. 

3.Your Energy is your only asset: Don’t squander it.

               If you get tired and quit, you’ll be replaced before the close of business, and just as likely, you’ll have another job quickly, if you don’t already. The blood, sweat, and tears you put into your job can’t be at the expense of everything else. You have the potential to carry your team across the finish line of every shift. Every morning when you load up on caffeine and energy drinks you are telling yourself “I’ve got this!” I know this is going to be tough to hear, but I have to tell you: The problem is not the place you work. You are burning yourself out. You are the leader here and have been for some time. YOU created this. YOU will burn out. This business requires a lot of people and your team depends on you to bring the energy with you. They expect you to get every bit of energy from every other team member as well. How can you do this if you have no energy left? 

 4. Take care of yourself first

               When you add 10,15, 20, or even more pounds on it takes a toll on you. When you don’t recharge yourself, it takes a toll on every aspect of the restaurant you once loved. Your favorite restaurant, the one you work in, is losing its energy because you have lost your energy. 

Here’s what you need to do:

               Make a commitment to take care of yourself first. The demands of this business are the same as they were the day you started. Watch your diet, as you can’t eat in your restaurant every day. Your health and quality of life will suffer. Get on a manageable exercise program and stick to it. You owe it to yourself and your team to find the time. Do you want to save your favorite restaurant? Give up your excuses, it is time for action!

Signed

Your Future Self

If you feel like you have lost your energy, or the work you do has lost it’s meaning, it might be time for a change. A change from within, it is time for a transformation. You can have it all: work-life balance, a great family life, and great health. Step into a life of daily wins and abundant energy!

Dan Maher has over twenty-five years’ experience in the restaurant business. Exeutive Chef and Certified personal trainer. If you'd like to learn more follow this link and we can get you on a path of more energy, higher purpose, and personal victories. https://dmaher.wufoo.com/forms/z1a3uilo1jrhhr1/