Thursday, 9 May 2013

R Factor #2


In Tony Schwart's The Energy Project, factors that effect your energy level are diet, exercise and sleep, which are commonly known. The fourth we don't focus on enough is RENEWAL, getting enough time off to build up your energy levels.

It is science that tells us that we are far more productive, creative and efficient when we get enough rest and renewal. Don't you feel more energetic when you return from vacation or two days away from work? If so, why does our industry make you work over 90-hours a week and get upset when you are unproductive? Recently, there was a news story about the tragedy in India where the garment factory collapsed and the horrible working conditions, citing workers were forced to work over 60-hours per week! This is nothing compared to hospitality workers. By the way, I am not trivializing what happened in India.

Daniel Pink, author of Drive and To Sell is Human, points out what we know from science we don't practice in business, is killing our work force.

Owners can factor this in from the start-up phase creating a budget line to ensure proper working hours and team's well being. I know the typical come back from an owner is, "well we work all the time and don't sleep...take one for the team...we need to see your loyalty" Don't forget that the risk:reward is completely different for an owner than a manager/line staff.

Time to make a difference, create a business model and service culture that is sustainable, not just a buzzword on your menu.

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