By Jeremy Cohen
Let's face it: For all of the financial rewards and personal satisfaction it (hopefully) brings, sales management is hardly a low-stress profession. Indeed, in my very first post for S&MM SoundOff, I emphasized the necessity of adopting a comprehensive exercise regimen for anyone hoping to avoid a trip to the cardiology center.
But true physical fitness encompasses more than just hoisting free weights and logging miles on the treadmill; taking care of what’s upstairs is every bit as crucial. In fact, if one gives credence to a recent article in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, mental health demands just as much priority as diet and the gym.
“The brain, experts say, needs breaks,” writes AJC reporter Helena Oliviero, “whether it’s through meditation, yoga, a massage, a pedicure or simply sitting in a park or taking some deep breaths with your morning brew.” Oliviero quotes workplace coach Tevis Gale, who puts things even more succintly: “Keeping that balance between work and life is what keeps us sane … Yet, we forget to take the time to check our mental status and give it importance.”
I know, I know … telling your typical type A sales manager he needs to stop and smell the roses is about as effective as trying to sell him a Yugo. So let’s try a different tact: Being highly disciplined and organized is what helped get you to the top of the professional mountain, right? Well, try putting those traits to work for your health. Schedule a BlackBerry- and laptop-free hour every day, at the same time, and stick with it. Schedule 30 minutes to take a walk outside or meditate in your office, and stick with it. Stick to these appointments as religiously as you would to any meeting.
Trust me, the world won’t fall apart during these mini-absences … but sooner or later you will, if you don’t take care of yourself.
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