Entrepreneurs share their downtime habits in new Instagram research

by Startacus Admin

What are the downtime habits of some of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world and can we learn from them?

The way we spend our spare time isn’t often talked about. But it can play an important role in our business success. New research has revealed the downtime habits of some of the most successful entrepreneurs in the world; here’s what we can learn from them.

When we think about ‘downtime’, we often think about those activities which are fun or, in many cases, those bits of ‘admin’ we need to address when we get home.

With the focus on mindfulness, meditation and all round wellbeing increasing all the time, many businesses are now looking at how they can improve the work-life balance from a work perspective. But what can we be doing, as business people, to redress the balance ourselves?

1. Take to the water

Swimming, scuba diving, boat trips and simply being by the water were a common downtime activity of successful business people, according to new research.

In many cases, water activities opened the door to improved fitness and trying something new while in some, it was purely a case of finding somewhere relaxing - with the sounds of ebbing water providing the perfect backdrop to a lazy Sunday afternoon of book reading and napping.

“Research shows that simply being near water can be restorative, particularly swimming outside,” says Ian Cumming of Swimming.org. According to the research, Apprentice star Lord Sugar and Facebook entrepreneur Mark Zuckerberg were amongst those who favoured aqua activities in their spare time.

2. Indulge your wanderlust

We all know that travel can expand horizons and change thinking. But have you thought about the impact this could have on your ability to do business?

The old adage goes that ‘if we always do what we’ve always done, we’ll always get what we’ve always got’. The best way to open our minds, according to the experts, is through travel.

“It’s important to disconnect and take time out for yourself, look at the world from different perspectives and learn more about different cultures.” said Gareth O’Sullivan of Orbis Explorer.

The research showed that amongst the entrepreneurs spending their time travelling were Amazon CEO Jeff Bezos and Virgin entrepreneur Richard Branson.

3. Spend time with friends and family

It may seem simple but think back to the last time you spent real, quality time with those you love. That’s time without mobile phones, without emails. Where laptops played no part in the evening or weekend.

If you’re like many entrepreneurs out there, it’s difficult to remember that time. Technology keeps us so well connected these days that it’s so easy to quickly check this or send that.

But, as the experts point out, it’s that quality time that keeps us grounded and helps us see more clearly.

“Close relationships, where you don’t feel you have to put on a show or ‘deliver’, will keep you healthy and energised.” explains Alice McGurran of Welldoing.org.

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Published on: 29th October 2018