It’s easy to look at the bosses of some of the world’s biggest brands and think they live and breathe their work. But that obsessive focus comes with a price: a work-life imbalance, which many career counselors say is essential. And the higher the employee climbs the corporate ladder, the more important the need for shutdown becomes.
That’s why many c-suite executives are now moving into a ‘opposite world’.
Nick Petrie, a New Zealand-based leadership researcher, defines the opposite world as “an activity or hobby that brings them into a state of direct opposition to the mindset they have at work.” and recharge them).”
So what exactly are CEOs across the globe doing to blow off steam?
Listen to death metal music
Who? Marcus Rader, CEO at vacation software developer Hostaway.
“Life in my home country of Finland has really prepared me for the role of CEO of host. Finns often choose not to share their worries with the outside world, and because of their northern location, Finland is in the dark most of the time. So how do Finnish people deal with stress? Well, the numbers speak for themselves: Finland has the highest number of heavy metal bands per capita in the world.
“Heavy metal lyrics often deal with complex themes that audiences can find solace in. Few heavy metal songs tell the story of sunny days, palm trees and sports cars. Instead, they share themes that revolve around darker themes such as death, war, loneliness, and disease, and often combine these themes in one song, such as “One.” by Metallica or “Hallowed Be Thy Name” by Iron Maiden. Although I no longer have time to play in a death metal band, I find solace in the dark, heavy themes and tones of distorted guitars when I want to distance myself from reality. every day and see their problems from their point of view.
“After all, how hard is it really to deal with accounting or human resources issues compared to being put on the gallows? It’s not that hard when you stop and think about it.”
Going to circus school
Who? Iman Gatti, CEO and Founder of Consultant Iman Gattia certified grief recovery specialist.
“A few months ago, I was driving and saw a sign that said ‘Join the Circus’ and I giggled because it was silly and fun. I looked at their website and saw a class called ‘Midlife Circus’. I signed up immediately. I absolutely hate heights but there I was, standing on a Ferris wheel, trying not to fall. I’m so proud of myself and every week it’s less scary.
“I love opening up new corners of my brain. It makes me a better person but especially as a CEO, because every day poses new problems, fears, and decisions that make me feel like I’m at home. up there. Circus school reminds me that there’s a whole world of tough things that I’m not very good at, but showing off and being ready to go bad also means you’re ready to be great.”
Shower in the airport lounge
Who? Torben Friehe, CEO and founder of financial services company, defender
“I like to fly to relax – literally. Basically, I would book an economy class flight to anywhere just to fly and I do this maybe every few weeks or so. In particular, I enjoy hanging out in airport lounges and — more specifically — showering in airport lounges. It is one of the best ways to relax.
“If I’m not flying, I like to get up very early around 2 or 3 a.m. and watch documentaries about airplanes—such as Boeing airplanes 707, 747 and all pre-1970s Lockheed aircraft were developed.”
Compete in international snow sculpture competitions
Who? Martin Sharp is the CEO of Sharp fit for lifeFitness trainer and author.
“I recently participated in the International Snow Sculpting Competition in Austria and am currently competing in Kiruna, Sweden. Anything outdoors and being in nature is a way to get away from technology and get away from everything completely.
“As the CEO of an organization and even as a business transformation expert, you need time away from what you’re doing as much as you need to have time to actually do what you’re doing. doing. For myself, I find it hard to relax doing nothing, but if I have an outlet where I can do something, I relax, de-stress, and enjoy what’s going on. happening around you.“
Dress up the doll on my cell phone
Who? Angela Pretner Smith, CEO and founder of business consulting firm, This is milk
“My worst year in business was also the year I discovered my dirty little secret. I’m in a rut, things are going bad, and to be honest, my brain isn’t a nice place. I pushed myself out of that negative position with a combination of goal setting and affirmation, but also allowed myself a break. And my brain breakdown doesn’t match the smart, professional personality I like to think I exude.
“I play a mobile app called Covet. Basically, I dress up the doll and then vote on the other players’ outfits. It’s mindless, creative and I’m really addicted. I might consider this a bad thing, but honestly, it totally calms my brain. Now I know that neurodiversity means my brain needs more rest or it needs to do more than one thing at a time. Craving is where I go to take over the passive part of my brain while the active part listens.”
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