By DENNIS GUEVARRA

In the tumultuous year of 2020, I, a dedicated financial executive in the heart of Singapore’s bustling financial landscape, found myself at a crossroads. The global pandemic had upended life as we knew it and I, like many, faced the daunting challenge of maintaining both personal and professional equilibrium. 

Balancing the demands of a high-powered career, the uncertainties brought by the pandemic, and the responsibilities of fatherhood, I hit a wall—an insurmountable barrier of burnout, stress, and what seemed like a string of professional setbacks.

In the whirlwind of work and daily life, I stumbled upon something amazing, a simple yet powerful truth—wellness. This discovery wasn’t born out of a crisis but from digging into why wellness is at the heart of personal and professional success.

Mental health: Your daily guide to success

Setting intentions: Back when my days felt like a runaway train, I started setting small intentions each morning. One day, it was as simple as “focus on one task at a time.” Surprisingly, that small act made a huge difference. It was like having a tiny superhero guiding me through the chaos.

Getting organized: Organizing my day became a game-changer. I remember a particularly hectic week when I decided to organize my tasks. Suddenly, the chaos seemed more manageable. It was like tidying up my thoughts, making space for clarity.

Prioritizing sleep: One night, after a string of restless nights, I decided to prioritize sleep. The next day, I felt like I had a secret shield against stress. I realized that a good night’s sleep was the key to facing the day with a clear mind.

Physical health: Energizing your success journey

Daily fitness regimen: I once started a daily fitness routine with a simple goal—to move for at least 15 minutes. It wasn’t about becoming a fitness guru. it was about giving my body a high-five. Soon, I noticed a boost in energy that lasted throughout the day.

Nutritious diet: During a particularly hectic project, I swapped my usual office snacks for healthier options. It was like fueling up with the good stuff. I found that a well-nourished body was more resilient, not just against work challenges but in navigating the everyday hurdles too.

Hydration awareness: Staying hydrated became a game-changer. It was like giving my body a refreshing boost throughout the day. A simple habit, often overlooked, that turned out to be a key player in maintaining peak performance. As Jim Rohn said, “Take care of your body, it’s the only place to live.”

Emotional health: Becoming a superhero of feelings

Establishing boundaries: Juggling work and family, I realized the importance of setting boundaries. One evening, I decided to dedicate an hour solely to family time. It was like drawing a line, creating a space for personal wellbeing amid the professional hustle.

Speaking up: There was a time work stress was overwhelming. Instead of bottling it up, I spoke up. It felt like taking off a heavy backpack. Admitting vulnerability turned out to be a superpower against workplace stress.

Empathy in action: I actively practiced empathy in the workplace. It wasn’t just about understanding others but creating a supportive environment. The ripple effect was astounding—colleagues became collaborators, and stress transformed into shared problem-solving.

Spiritual health: Navigating with your inner compass

Mindfulness practices: Amid a chaotic week, I started taking short breaks to practice mindfulness. It was like hitting a reset button for my mind. I found that a few deep breaths brought focus and clarity.

Living according to values: Reflecting on my values, I made a decision to align my actions with what mattered most to me. It felt like having a personal GPS. Suddenly, decisions became clearer, and my journey felt more purposeful.

Giving back: I joined a community initiative, and the sense of connection was incredible. Acts of kindness felt like spreading good vibes. I realized that success isn’t just personal. It’s about creating positive ripples in the world around us.

Balancing act: Balancing work and personal commitments became an ongoing process. It wasn’t about perfection but about adapting. Learning to navigate the twists and turns with a balanced mindset became a journey of continuous growth.

In a nutshell, this journey is about a simple but powerful idea—wellness isn’t just for fitness gurus or health experts. It’s the key ingredient for anyone aiming to find success in both their personal and professional lives. 

It’s like having a guide, a map that helps you navigate through the busy days. So, the next time someone brushes off wellness as a trendy term, remember that it’s the secret to unlocking success, one small and simple step at a time.