Tools to get your head in the game

Hello!

I hope you’re doing well.

It’s a weird time at the moment. Here in New Zealand, long-standing brands are closing their doors and while we’re still seeing plenty of success stories, the current financial climate does play on your mind a bit.

Today, I wanted to share some resources – one that I hope will be helpful for your business, but the rest are just for you.

Managing a business, whether it’s your own or you’re in the senior leadership team, is hard. If you’re in the southern hemisphere, this time of year can feel even harder with winter bugs and grey days.

So I’m going to take a break from my usual programming to bring you a message about wellness.

Here’s what’s on the agenda:

Business
💡 Tips to unlock your next big idea

Well-being
💆 Tools to bump your well-being up the priority list

💡 BUSINESS

Tips to find your next big idea

Brands that go the distance are the ones that continue to innovate, adapting and evolving with the market. But when you’re bogged down with the day-to-day, it’s not always easy to come up with your next big idea.

A while back, I came across this article by Shopify and I thought it had some great tips to get the brainstorming ball rolling.

Start with yourself

• Take a look at your personal transactions – what are you currently spending your money on? Is there a way that some of those products or services can be improved or made more affordable?

• What tasks do you find yourself avoiding? Is there a service you could create that would solve that problem?

• What tasks do you find frustrating? Could a product or service make them easier?

Dive into online conversations

• Think about where your audience is conversing online – maybe Facebook groups or Reddit. What are they talking about on those forums? Are there any insights that could inform your next big idea?

Ask your customers directly

• Social media is a great tool for two-way conversation. Got a new product idea in mind? Can’t decide on the name? Float your ideas past your customers to get their opinions. Instagram polls are a great way to get feedback without asking for too much effort from your audience. Plus, when your new product or service launches, they’ll already have a connection to it.

💆 WELL-BEING

Tools to bump your well-being up the priority list  

I don’t know about you but the instinct to burn the candle at both ends is strong. The thing you have to remember is that you’re not much use to anybody when you’re burnt out.

Different things work for different people so I thought I’d give you a smorgasbord of tools and strategies to cherry-pick what looks good to you. There are things for your head and things for your body; things for sleep and things to build healthy habits. Hopefully something will pique your interest.

Apps:

• Calm – guided meditations, sleep stories and relaxing soundscapes.

• WaterMinder – reminders to drink water for those who struggle with hydration.

• AllTrails – a list of trails near you to get out in nature and clear your head. Filter by length, difficulty and natural attractions.

• ClassPass – access a range of fitness classes and spa treatments with monthly credits.

Podcasts:

• Huberman Lab – science-based tools for everyday life, explored by Dr. Andrew Huberman.

• On Purpose – Chief Purpose Officer of the Calm app, Jay Shetty talks about everything from daily routines to mental health. (If you’re not into celebrities, don’t be put off by the landing page. There are plenty of episodes that aren’t focused on Kardashians!)

• The Happiness Lab – Dr. Laurie Santos discusses the latest scientific research and shares inspiring stories, reframing how we think about “happiness”.

• Diary of a CEO – Stephen Bartlett explores amazing stories from influential people, discussing business, health and more. (This one is my go-to.)

Supplements:

• Harker Herbals – natural remedies to beat winter bugs and more.

• Two Islands – natural supplements to help with everything from sleep to mood, to focus and energy.

Experiences:

• Hana – I mentioned them last week and I’ll mention them again. If you’re in Auckland, do your body (and head) a favour with a sauna, massage or PBM light therapy. I can also recommend their podcast.

❤️ REFER A FRIEND

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Thanks for reading!

Until next time.

Alex Murton
Managing Director & Co-Founder
Studio Almond