[Podcast Episode #6] Stop Neglecting Yourself: Cultivate the Life You Deserve

In today’s fast-paced world, especially for business owners, self-care often takes a back seat as we chase deadlines, conquer targets, and pursue ambitious visions. But neglecting one’s well-being can lead to devastating consequences—burnout, diminished productivity, and a loss of purpose. Cosimo de’ Medici understood this long before the term “self-care” was coined. He retreated to his beloved Villa di Careggi to water his garden—not just literally, but metaphorically, nurturing his mind, body, and spirit.

Burnout isn’t just a modern buzzword. It’s a reality that many entrepreneurs face, often realizing too late that relentless hustle takes a toll. I know this firsthand. In my early 20s, I was running a successful catering business, managing multiple responsibilities, and juggling too many spinning plates. I hit a wall. The stress became overwhelming, and I was completely drained. My family intervened, sending me on a trip to the U.S., where I was able to step back, reflect, and reset. That journey gave me the space to recharge and immerse myself in contemplative reading—a turning point that taught me a crucial lesson: success demands discipline, and part of that discipline is knowing when to pause.

The truth is, hustle culture glorifies grinding harder, but real productivity comes from working smarter. Cosimo knew this. While he built a banking empire and wielded political influence across Europe, he always made time to retreat and rejuvenate. He understood that stepping back was not a sign of weakness but a strategic move to sharpen his focus and fortify his strength. Entrepreneurs today must embrace this mindset. Just as athletes need rest after sprints, business owners must build moments of stillness into their routines to sustain high performance in the long run.

Self-care isn’t a hindrance to success—it’s fuel for achieving greater results. Entrepreneurs often feel guilty for taking breaks, but as we discussed earlier, would you let a million-dollar racehorse eat junk food and skip rest? Of course not. You’d protect your investment and ensure it was primed for peak performance. Why should you treat yourself any differently? You are your greatest asset.

Incorporating restorative practices doesn’t have to be complicated. Establishing regular breaks, building routines that include moments of leisure, and observing a Sabbath—a deliberate pause to disconnect from work—can create a strong foundation for sustained well-being. Nature, too, offers a timeless antidote to stress. Cosimo found solace in his garden, and we can find peace in simple acts like walking in the woods, tending a garden, or listening to the quiet lap of waves against the shore. These moments of stillness reconnect us with what truly matters, offering clarity and renewal.

At the heart of this principle is a simple truth: to lead others and build a lasting legacy, you must first care for yourself. The entrepreneurial journey is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself wisely. As Cosimo demonstrated, true success comes not just from building empires but from cultivating a life of balance, wisdom, and intentional rest.