For executives, stress is an ever-present theme. It’s often caused by long hours and tight deadlines, but it can also come from the pressure to lead a successful business. That’s why finding a reliable way to relax and de-stress is so important for CEOs. One of the best ways to do this is to take up a hobby.

Hobbies can provide an outlet for stress, and they come with many additional benefits too. Many hobbies involve physical activity, which can help to improve fitness levels and reduce fatigue. Hobbies can also lead to new skills being acquired, or old ones improved upon. This can be beneficial both in terms of personal growth, and for the business.

Finding a hobby that’s enjoyable but also fits into your busy schedule isn’t easy, but it’s worth the effort. Hobbies can help to relieve stress, provide an escape from work-related worries, and even lead to personal growth. So if you need a way to unwind and refresh, consider taking up a hobby. It could be just what you need to become a more successful CEO.

For me personally, my hobbies include fitness, gardening, and classic cars. I love starting my day with a workout... and when I am feeling extra stress in the middle of day... I try to take 20 minutes for a walk, yoga, or a quick free weights session. Then in the evening and on the weekends, I like to garden. In the spring and summer I like to get outside on our property and plant huge vegetable gardens. Getting your hands and feet in the soil also has tons of benefits with adding the negative electrons your body needs to reduce stress and inflamation. And once every few years, I start a new classic car project where I buy something old and rebuild it from the ground up. 

No matter what you choose for a hobby... your career may depend on it.