part 4

[Virtual Presenter] When I started juicing for 60 days, I noticed something remarkable. My surroundings became more vibrant. I looked out the window of my balcony, and the Amstel River, which runs through Amsterdam, caught my attention. The river's color seemed brighter than ever before, and the trees surrounding it appeared in Technicolor. The birds singing outside added to the sensory experience, and I felt a newfound appreciation for the beauty around me. This was just the beginning of my transformation. I continued juicing, losing over 60 pounds and gaining more energy and clarity of mind. I even formed a digital friendship with Joe Cross, who inspired me with his generosity. Our shared experiences, from being unhealthy entrepreneurs to prioritizing our well-being, created a strong bond between us. Through this journey, I discovered the importance of listening to my body. It's a well-organized instrument that provides valuable signals about what and how to eat. For instance, locally grown and organic produce offer greater nutritional benefits compared to mass-produced options. By learning to tune into my body's needs, I've made significant changes to my lifestyle, and I'm grateful for the lessons I've learned along the way..

[Audio] When I started juicing, I felt like I was getting back to basics. I was focusing on my physical health, and it was amazing how quickly my mental clarity improved. I used to feel sluggish and tired all the time, but after juicing for 60 days, I had so much more energy. My mind was clearer, and I was able to think more clearly. I was amazed by how interconnected everything was. My body was telling me something, and I was finally listening. I was no longer ignoring its signals. I was taking care of myself, and it felt incredible..

[Audio] When we mimic a famine, our senses become heightened, and we experience a surge in clarity and awareness. This is due to the survival mechanism that kicks in during times of scarcity. As entrepreneurs, this heightened focus allows us to break through obstacles and identify our true goals. By doing a reboot, we're essentially climbing a tall tree, gaining perspective and ensuring we're on the right path. With this clarity, we can overcome challenges and achieve greater success..

[Audio] When I get stressed, sugar becomes a temptation for me. For others, it may be substances like alcohol or drugs. People are unique, and while some turn to smoking, others develop poor eating habits due to stress. One must sacrifice a significant amount of time and effort when pursuing goals, including leisure activities, exercise, and socializing, as the work demands constant attention. This intense focus can lead to unhealthy habits, as individuals become consumed by their passions. As a result, other aspects of life may suffer..

[Audio] When nutrition plays a huge role in the efficiency of our brains, thoughts, minds, and our resilience to stress, it's essential to understand that many of our foods have chemicals in them that inhibit our thought processes. Just like a bottle of Jack Daniels can impair our thinking, certain foods can also cause irritation and frustration in the brain, leading to decreased focus and productivity. Mood swings and afternoon lulls can occur due to fluctuating blood sugar levels caused by consuming sugary drinks or heavy meals. By recognizing the impact of our diet on our cognitive function, we can make informed choices to optimize our performance and achieve greater efficiency in our daily lives..

[Audio] When our brain responds to the perfect combination of sugar, fat, and salt, it's known as the bliss point. Corporations have successfully configured their products to hit this point, making them extremely popular. However, many of us, not just through diet but also due to overprescription of antibiotics and other foods containing antibiotics, are depleted of the healthy bacteria necessary for proper digestion and disease prevention. Without consuming enough plant-based foods, it's challenging for our gut to achieve balance. This leads to significant inflammation, which begins in the gut and spreads throughout the body, causing numerous diseases. The Reboot isn't a quick fix; instead, it's a journey back in time to our ancestors' experiences of feast and famine. By creating this famine, we're giving our bodies a chance to rest and cleanse themselves. I believe we should aim for regular breaks, such as five-day or ten-day famines, to allow our bodies to recover and rejuvenate. When we release this pressure, the results are remarkable. We're not consuming excessive amounts of processed foods, which would otherwise hinder our progress..

[Audio] When you fall while skateboarding as a child, your body heals itself by forming a scab, which eventually dries out and regenerates tissue over time. However, if you constantly pick at the wound, it won't heal, and it may even become infected, leading to serious complications. This illustrates the importance of letting your body heal itself, both physically and mentally. Just as the body can recover from external injuries, it can also repair internal damage. Many people have experienced significant improvements in their health through a process called "Reboot," which involves giving their bodies a chance to heal and regenerate. It's essential to define what being healthy means to you, rather than adhering to societal standards or relying solely on scientific data. For some, this may mean achieving specific physical measurements or health markers, while others may prioritize overall well-being and happiness. Ultimately, you are your own expert, and it's crucial to develop a personalized understanding of what constitutes good health for you..

[Audio] When I define being healthy, I am able to do all the things I want to do with ease. This includes riding a bike, going for a hike, swimming a mile, getting a good night's sleep, and moving around freely without feeling tired or restricted. The focus is on ease, not on pushing myself to extreme limits. I have found that having a high level of happiness is a reliable indicator of my overall health and fitness. When I am in tune with my body, I can sense when I have strayed from my goals, whether it is consuming too much sugar, fat, or salt. I have developed internal mechanisms to guide me towards making healthier choices. While discipline is necessary, I believe it is more about establishing routines and habits than forcing myself to adhere to strict rules. To maintain my health, I need to plan ahead, organize my time, and make conscious decisions about my diet and lifestyle. By doing so, I can avoid falling into unhealthy patterns and stay connected to my inner self, which serves as the ultimate guide for my journey..

[Audio] When we look at change, many people view it as discomfort. However, entrepreneurs see it as an opportunity. To seize this chance, we must focus on the opportunity itself. I don't have a straightforward answer for letting go of an old identity, but it's crucial to consider how much you're willing to change. Self-love plays a significant role in altering these identities. Many individuals struggle with self-acceptance. It's essential to begin appreciating and loving oneself, not through superficial means like posting numerous selfies, but by giving oneself a break and refraining from negative self-talk. As leaders, we set examples for others. By prioritizing our own well-being, we demonstrate the importance of self-care. This includes creating a healthier environment in the workplace, selecting locations with access to nutritious food and green spaces, and promoting a culture of wellness among our teams. By aligning ourselves with these values, we'll experience increased productivity and ultimately benefit our businesses..

[Audio] When I used to live a luxurious lifestyle, I would often visit high-end stores and spend large sums of money. However, after embarking on my life redesign, I found myself reading the invoice for my laundry service for the first time. This was a shock to my system, as I had grown accustomed to having others handle my household chores. Furthermore, when I got out of the hospital and started selling my businesses, I discovered that I couldn't even afford to buy a single organic orange anymore. I had to learn to do my own laundry, which was initially difficult and a significant blow to my ego. Many people assume that successful entrepreneurs are financially savvy and have a cushion of savings and investments. But this is not always the case. I've seen many celebrities and businesspeople struggle financially due to poor planning. In my previous life, I had a mentality that focused solely on short-term gains, neglecting the importance of long-term financial security..

[Audio] But to be a healthy entrepreneur, you have to think not only about making money for today but also about making money for tomorrow. The money your business generates is not your personal income. They are as different as the stars and the sky. Whether you're intent on building a lucrative business or already own one, that doesn't mean you'll become rich or you are rich. You still must live within your means and steer clear of the unholy mayhem of consumption and consumerism. You must still design investments and create savings to cushion the fall when stuff happens, and stuff always happens. Maybe the risk-taking and creative nature of being an entrepreneur leads to impracticalities when it comes to designing a down-to-earth financial plan. I'm not sure. But what I do know for sure is that you can't eat rocks, as they say in real estate about being house rich and cash poor. In addition, your net worth can never be the basis for your self-worth. Otherwise, you're setting yourself up for disaster if your business is sold or goes south. Your emotions will go haywire, and you'll lose your identity. If you see yourself and your business as one entity, then if it goes bankrupt, you will go bankrupt inside yourself..

[Audio] When we make choices, we tend to focus on achieving specific outcomes, neglecting what's truly important to us. Sri, a real estate company owner in San Francisco, exemplifies this. Initially, he sought to become a market leader, prompting me to advise him to hire a team to drive growth. However, as our conversation progressed, he confided in me his profound desire for a high-quality, low-stress life with his family, spending weekends exploring the northern regions. Recognizing that this lifestyle was incompatible with city stress and managing a large team, our discussion shifted. He chose to invest in larger properties up north, harmoniously integrating his lifestyle aspirations with his business objectives. This experience taught Sri a valuable lesson, aligning his decisions with his fundamental need for emotional well-being. By prioritizing what's truly important, Sri was able to make choices that brought him joy and fulfillment..

[Audio] When I mentor people, I encourage them to explore what's truly important to them. Take Rafael and John, for instance. They used to be rough-around-the-edges real estate agents, straight out of Glengarry Glen Ross. But then they discovered a passion for creating a country resort in Northern California. They wanted to shift their focus towards quality of life. I've had the pleasure of visiting them twice. On our first meeting, they took me to a local taqueria where they were regulars. The next day, I helped them identify fresh produce on their land - herbs, lemons, tomatoes, and figs. I prepared a delicious pasta dish using these ingredients, opening their eyes to new possibilities. Today, they sell their fresh produce locally, and they're more attuned to their dreams and their own well-being. It's essential to discover what you genuinely desire. Many entrepreneurs I've met haven't realized that their overall well-being depends on those around them. At work, your team will often try to please you, masquerading as friendship. It's crucial to distinguish between friendships and professional relationships. It's unfair to your team members and inappropriate when it comes to fulfilling your fundamental human needs. You'll never know if it's genuine. The biggest mistake people make in their personal lives is failing to clarify their needs and desires with their loved ones..

[Audio] When I think about my own life, I realize that I've been trained to go along to get along. My family and friends know that I love spending time outdoors, especially under the sun. In fact, I need the sun to feel alive. While they invite me to join them in outdoor activities like visiting the beach or park, I've never been invited to go skiing. This is because I've trained them not to suggest such activities. Sometimes, I feel left out when I see pictures of them having fun in the snow, but I know what makes me happy, and they do too. Many of us have been conditioned to conform to societal norms. This starts early, even in schools where students are taught to thank their teachers for instruction. However, as individuals, we're becoming increasingly unique. There's a gap between our desires and the way we're programmed. It's crucial to recognize this as we strive to redefine our lives. We must stand firm when we feel guilty or uncomfortable about our specific needs..

[Audio] When I mentor people, I press them to answer one question: "What will make you happy?" They often discuss their goals and achievements, but as we delve deeper, they reveal what they truly desire. It's crucial to comprehend what drives them, as it might diverge from what others anticipate or want. Like Quinn, who initially concentrated on his start-up's success and revenue, but ultimately discovered his genuine aspirations, such as being a respected thought leader in entrepreneurship. By open communication and honesty, individuals can clarify their priorities and prevent drifting aimlessly, leading to burnout..

[Audio] Living a healthy life is a decision. It doesn’t come easy, and you need ways to remind yourself how to stay on course. I create dashboards on my desktop that provide me with metrics in various categories, including financial health and social media impact. Planning regular feedback sessions with myself and my mentor network is crucial. This includes giving my team of mentors permission to provide feedback, which is essential for maintaining great health. For instance, managing my weight has always been a challenge for me. I dislike going to the gym, but I do it. Recently, I took a break from exercising for a month, and when I returned, my personal trainer asked if I went swimming that morning. I replied no, and he pointed out the inner tube around my middle. His words stung, but they motivated me to work out a plan to regain control over my weight. It's all about creating a process for measuring physical, emotional, and financial health..

[Audio] When I decided to maintain optimal health by limiting my daily work hours to six to eight hours, I faced challenges. On the first day I tried this new schedule, I went swimming in the morning. After completing two laps, I checked the clock and saw that it was almost time to start work. Feeling guilty about not going to work, I stopped swimming and felt overwhelmed. I eventually abandoned my swim gear and realized that it was too soon to make such drastic changes. My body was accustomed to starting work at that specific time. Although I was able to achieve the desired workday, it took time. To successfully introduce a new component for improving health, patience and gradual adjustment may be necessary. Working a shorter day allows me to eliminate non-essential tasks and focus on what truly matters..

[Audio] When I mentor people who work excessively long days, I instruct them to record every accomplishment in a workday for two consecutive days. They invariably return to me with a sheet containing approximately three items. "It seems like I'm accomplishing more," they protest. If this is your situation, it signifies that you're headed toward burnout. You feel extremely busy, yet in reality, you're becoming less efficient. Focusing on minute details is perilous because you lose sight of the larger picture. It's time to sit down and balance your time across the Five Facets, regaining your ability to perceive the forest rather than merely the trees. Most books on entrepreneurship, regardless of whether they are instructional guides or biographies, are written from a peacetime perspective. The authors have either retired or sold their businesses and then relocated to places like Miami or La Jolla to write their books on entrepreneurship while lounging in their deck chairs by the pool or ocean. The issue is that the lives these individuals are currently living have no connection to the life you're currently living. I believe you, like me, are in the midst of what I refer to as the rush hour of life. You have a spouse or significant other, children, and a sweet but demanding pet (or both), and most of the time, your world is chaotic. However, if you can transcend the chaos, you'll realize that you're not progressing toward your objectives. You're stuck in the underbrush, and it's time to step back and examine the broader picture..

[Audio] When I started juicing for 60 days, I felt overwhelmed by the chaos around me. I'd attend client meetings while still in my pajamas, with cereal crumbs in my shoes. My days blurred together - I'd go to bed and wake up at odd hours, feeling exhausted. But then I met Joe Cross, who showed me that prioritizing my health and well-being was crucial. I realized that being an entrepreneur shouldn't consume every aspect of my life. I wrote this book to share my journey and help others find balance. By focusing on what I'm good at and what brings me joy, I've found momentum and clarity. And when I face challenges, I ask myself questions to learn from my experiences. This way of living has helped me create a life that's truly mine..

[Audio] When I started juicing, I felt a profound shift within myself. It was as if I had made a conscious decision to prioritize my own well-being. I had been so focused on my career and external validation that I neglected my own needs. But that moment in the hospital, where I chose to re-evaluate my priorities, marked a turning point for me. I began to see that true fulfillment comes from living a happy, meaningful, and purposeful life. And that's exactly what happened when I started juicing. I felt more energized, more focused, and more connected to myself. It was a simple yet powerful choice, and one that I encourage you to make for yourself. By prioritizing your own well-being, you can experience this same transformation. Don't wait until tomorrow or next week - choose to flip the switch and start living the life you truly desire..

[Audio] As I looked out from the stage, I felt a sense of accomplishment wash over me. Five hundred people stood on their feet, applauding wildly. We were in the sleek, modern auditorium at Iceland's Arion bank, where I had just finished a talk on sustainable entrepreneurship. I couldn't believe how far I'd come in such a short time. The lights came back up, and a long line of people approached the stage, eager to ask me questions. It took more than an hour to answer them all. Finally, one gentleman remained, standing tall and confident. At first glance, I could tell he was a successful businessman, dressed in a tailored suit that seemed almost too perfect. His hair was expertly styled, and his temples were graying in a way that made him look distinguished. He exuded an air of confidence and sophistication, like a high-end fashion model showcasing his latest designer suit. I was struck by his poise and presence, and I knew that this man was someone who had achieved great things in his career..

[Audio] When I met this gentleman, he was a businessman and an extremely successful one, sporting a smart haircut with perfectly graying temples. He looked like the kind of guy who drove an Audi A8 home to a perfect blonde wife and matching children who attended the best schools in Reykjavik. He approached me, turned around to check if anyone else was nearby, and then looked up at me saying quietly, "Thank you for opening my eyes." He cried uncontrollably, stating, "Finally, someone has confronted me with the fact that everyone around me is happy, my family, my employees, but I feel empty," and "I'm exhausted. Finally, someone showed me—you showed me—that I need to take care of me instead of always taking care of other people. I never understood this, but now I understand." He then quickly turned around and walked away. It's a cliché that it's lonely at the top, but clichés exist for a reason. Many entrepreneurs I interviewed felt lonely, even though they appeared to have it all. They didn't want to admit it because they feared appearing weak. This code of silence can have severe consequences for entrepreneurs' health, well-being, and success..

[Audio] When I looked out from the stage and blinked into the blinding lights, five hundred people were on their feet applauding. We were in the sleek, modern auditorium at Iceland's Arion bank. I had just finished a talk on sustainable entrepreneurship. I couldn't believe how far I'd come in a few years. After the lights came up, a line of people approached the stage, and I answered more questions. It took more than an hour. Finally, one gentleman remained. At first look, I could tell he was a businessman and an extremely successful one. He was in his midforties, sporting a smart haircut with perfectly graying temples; he could have been an Italian model showing off a custom-made suit. It was one of the most expensive suits I'd ever seen. He looked like the kind of person who had it all together. But then I noticed something different. His eyes seemed tired, his shoulders slumped slightly, and his smile was forced. Despite his outward appearance of success, he seemed unhappy. That's when I realized that even the most successful people can feel trapped and unfulfilled. And that's when I knew that I had to share my story with others, so they could see that they're not alone..

[Audio] When I started my entrepreneurial journey, I wasn't doing well personally. Despite my financial success and celebrity visibility, I felt unfulfilled. A mentor would have told me the truth - that my relationships with my partner and family were suffering because they weren't equipped to offer me the guidance I needed. That's why I believe it's essential to surround yourself with a team of mentors who can provide valuable insights and support. To find these mentors, I suggest inspiring experts with your questions and seeking out individuals who possess that same curiosity and enthusiasm you had when you first started your business. Not only will this help you grow professionally, but it will also transform your personal life. And if you're willing to learn and adapt, I invite you to connect with me and ask me any questions you may have. I'm committed to helping you achieve happiness, health, and success as an entrepreneur..

[Audio] My father, Gé Hooft, has been a constant source of love and guidance. My children, Enzo and Senna, I hope you know that you can always redesign your life, no matter what challenges you may face. Leslie Guttman's exceptional editing skills and shared expertise and enthusiasm have been invaluable. Jeremy Brown, my publisher, has refined my message and helped me reach a wider audience. Ger Zwartendijk, program manager at Nyenrode Business University, contributed valuable insights that shaped the canvas. Frank Buytiek, at Gartner, motivated me to share my story. Michaël Ferron, my dear friend, has provided unwavering support and encouragement. Michaël, an accomplished artist, created the beautiful cover art, titled "Promise", which symbolizes the promise that anyone can redesign their life. Joe Cross inspired me to prioritize my health and well-being, and shared his own journey with us..

[Audio] When I started juicing for sixty days, I noticed significant changes in my physical and mental health. I lost over sixty pounds, and my energy levels increased dramatically. My mind became clearer, and I felt more focused. This transformation was largely due to the inspiration I received from Joe Cross, who encouraged me to prioritize my well-being. As someone who has founded twenty companies in fifteen years, I've often put business above personal needs. But this experience taught me the importance of balancing my entrepreneurial pursuits with self-care. By making healthier choices, I've become a more effective leader and mentor, able to guide others through the principles outlined in Redesign..