The idea of recharging the mind and body may seem indulgent. Often the idea conjures up visions of massages at a spa or relaxing in a hot tub with cucumbers on your eyes - not that either are bad. However, self-care doesn't need to be that extravagant and can be as simple as finding healthy ways to unwind, stretching or a few yoga poses after your shift. We asked leaders in hospitality how they take care of themselves and find a work-life balance that keeps them going in an industry where that can be difficult.
1
“Take care of your people. Your staff is what makes or breaks the restaurant. You can have the best food and atmosphere, but if you don’t have people that are well taken care of then it all means nothing."
Nicholas Forrester, General Manager at Uni in Boston
2
“If you are willing to do something to help someone, you have to give away time and energy. Perseverance is the most important part of it."
Jen Hidinger-Kendrick, Co-Founder & Partner at Staplehouse and Co-Founder & Spokesperson at The Giving Kitchen in Atlanta
3
"While my advice may be contrary to the industry of party, rockstar chefs and sommeliers, I’ve always thought that great longevity is sustained by going home after work, rather than going out. I’m not against having a beer or a glass of wine at the end of the evening, but I’ve kept this philosophy for the last 20 years and it is amazing how much more productivity I have gained from this."
Bobby Stuckey, Owner and Master Sommelier of Frasca Food and Wine Group in Boulder
4
"When it comes to keeping a healthy work-life balance: first off, I have to sleep - I envy those that can run on little to no sleep, but I just wasn't gifted with that skill. So, I remind myself that unless I'm my best self I can't bring my best. Second, I get energized by being with friends and family, so I make sure that I stay social, even if that means having a group come to the restaurant so we can hang even for a bit. Third, I forever have wanderlust which drives inspiration for me, so I commit to having one adventure a week, even if that means trying a new restaurant that's just opened or popping into an exhibit nearby west~bourne ... just something to get my brain thinking outside of the box."
Camilla Marcus, Founder at west~bourne in New York
5
"The key to maintaining a good work-life balance is understanding that everyone’s work-life balance is different. I have three boys and a baby daughter on her way. I hear people say all the time they want their weekends or Sunday off, they don’t want to close every night, they want a 9 to 5. But anyone who wants to do well in their career will do whatever they have to do to get the job done: doctors, nurses, firefighters, police officers, news broadcasters, athletes, lawyers, and so on. I’m not saying you have to work 24/7, but you need to understand what your work and life’s needs are, not what social media portrays or what you think others have. Work hard, play hard and do what is right. Lastly, remember that your work-life balance will evolve as life changes".
Vincent Spinoso, Chief Operating Officer at Metropolitan Hospitality Group in DC
