What Would Winston Do?

Something that has been playing on my mind recently and that I was discussing with one of my colleagues is the terrible work life balance you have in Ecology and specifically consultancy work. You work really long hours often to the point of being slightly delirious and any self care just goes out the window. And this is not something unique to this company it happens everywhere.

However what got me thinking and what I actually laughed about with my friend last month when in London, is what would Winston do? Now I am talking about Winston Churchill the former Prime Minister in the UK. The reason for this is despite his high level role and a very tough time in history leading the country through the second world war, he managed to find time to paint. This was a hobby of his and something that kept him grounded during tough times.

Now why do I bring this up? Because I have not been keeping up with my yoga or exercise routine whilst being busy with work and chasing deadlines. However, how can 30 mins of practice stop you achieving? In fact doing these things enhances your work as you feel better restored. So whilst the activity is different, any time I catch myself trying to skip over yoga or exercise, I ask myself what would Winston do? If he can find time to paint everyday as Prime Minister of the country during WWII then I can find time to do yoga each day!

So interesting that whilst back in Kent for a weekend as my cousin and her partner are visiting we end up going to the old Churchill residence, now a National Trust site, at Chartwell in Kent. We tour the house, gardens and even his old art studio. Very inspiring.