Health

It can be hard to stay healthy while building the next SpaceX or Snapchat. Just because it’s hard though doesn’t mean it should be ignored. In fact, without your health you wouldn’t be able to continue working towards a better future at all. Here’s what you need to know.

Ari Dutilh

More of a visual learner? Watch this video:

Now onto the good stuff…

Health isn’t just what you eat - it’s how you think too. Mental health is equally important as physical health, so let’s start with how to maintain good mental health.

Mental Health

1. Find time to meditate or be quiet

There are countless documented health advantages to daily meditation, including reduced stress and anxiety. Incredible builders such as Jack Dorsey and Padmasree Warrior take meditation extremely seriously. Martin Bjergegaard, the creator of Able, is a strong supporter of the benefits of meditation for their startup. Use apps like Calm or Headspace to get started. If you’re not into that kind of thing, just spend 5-15 mins being quiet.

1. Detach from tech

The tech journalist, Stewart Rogers, suggests spending more time in a natural setting in his keynote address at TechChill 2019 titled “What is Going Wrong With Mental Illness In The Tech Industry”. He is not alone in this; some Scottish doctors are already advising "a stroll in nature" as a strategy to cope with anxiety related to our digital world.

1. Physical Activity

It’s no secret that staying active is healthy. Check out this YouTube playlist to discover what you can incorporate into your workout routine:

1. Out-of-work Passions

Take up some hobbies that have nothing to do with your work. For example, mine are photography and sculling.

1. Stay social and be honest about how you’re feeling

Watch this TedTalk to learn more about how to do this.

Physical Health

Basic tips:

• Don't eat as much as you usually do on days you’ll be moving a lot.

• Eat carbs (rice, pasta, bread) around working out and physical activity. Eating carbs is best either before or after a workout.

• Don't over eat before doing physical activity.

• Let 2 hours pass between eating and falling asleep.

1. Don’t skip breakfast

1. Figure out how to make your eating convenient and healthy

1. Prepare snacks and meals in advance to save time

1. Don’t eat and work at the same time

1. Stay hydrated

1. Grocery shop with intention! Don’t buy food you know is full of preservatives and chemicals

1. Limit alcohol consumption