Serge Robichaud, a financial advisor based in Moncton, New Brunswick, has felt the increase in his physical and mental performance firsthand due to outdoor sports. “By getting outside and hiking or running, I can clear my head and get back on track,” he says. “It relieves my stress, it gives me energy, and it allows me to return to my work with a clearer mindset, which is important when it comes to making decisions on behalf of my clients.”

Outdoor sports give entrepreneurs a break from work pressures, providing an opportunity to disconnect and recharge through nature. Whether it’s the peacefulness of a long hike or the adrenaline of a mountain bike ride, outdoor activities create space for entrepreneurs to get away from the demands of their work. Such a mental reset is both refreshing and will help employees be more focused and mindful when they return to the office. Taking time away from busy tasks enables better focus in the long run and improved decision-making skills.

In fact, studies over the years have indicated that time spent in nature can be good for mental health. Research from the National Library of Medicine shows that outdoor activity can lower stress levels, reduce anxiety, enhance cognitive function, and improve mood. Thanks to Canada’s vast natural scenery, entrepreneurs have a plethora of options to seize each of these benefits.

Outdoor sports foster resilience, which is an important trait for entrepreneurship. “Outdoor sports force you to go beyond your limits, which also helps you to build the mental toughness necessary to cope with the demands of business. It’s about honing your mind and body in one part of your life so you can experience that resilience in your work, as well,” says Robichaud.

Stress is a common, if not universal, emotion among entrepreneurs, and this state of mind negatively impacts decision-making skills and productivity. However, with regular practice in outdoor sports, they can grow leadership qualities such as perseverance, discipline and adaptability. These qualities are critical when faced with the unpredictable nature of entrepreneurship.

“Work, like nature, can be unpredictable. You never know what will come at you when you’re out on a hike or a bike ride. When something does come up, you adjust, and you keep pushing through. That attitude translates directly into business,” says Robichaud.

Research shows that spending time in nature can also improve cognitive performance, particularly for tasks that require sustained attention and problem-solving skills. Outdoor sports can be a simple solution for entrepreneurs that need to turn on their mental game.

Whether you’re in for a quick jog around the block or a weekend hiking in the woods, outdoor sports can be a great resource for entrepreneurs who want to keep their minds clear and strong. To Robichaud, it’s part of his daily regimen.

“The challenges which I encounter outdoors have trained me to remain calm under pressure and think clearly, which helps me serve my clients better,” Robichaud concludes.

Outdoor sports provide a critical counterbalance to the increasing demands of entrepreneurship. They are a natural release system for stress and help build the leadership and decision-making skills that are crucial for success in business. Balanced entrepreneurs who want to be fitter and keep the mind healthy can follow outdoor sports ethics.

The post The Role of Outdoor Sports in Boosting Mental Clarity and Resilience for Entrepreneurs: Insights from Financial Advisor Serge Robichaud appeared first on CEO Medium.

After his tenure at Hicks Morley, Gleave transitioned to DLA Piper (Canada) LLP in 2019, where he currently serves as a partner. His clientele includes a diverse range of organizations involved in both commercial and employment disputes. Over the years, Gleave has skillfully managed countless arbitration cases. He’s lent his legal expertise to dozens of labour and civil injunctions, as well as an impressive fifty trials, showcasing his distinguished career in the legal field.

Gleave is an esteemed member of the Law Society of Ontario and the Canadian Bar Association. His legal achievements have consistently earned him recognition, securing placements in the Best Lawyers in Canada guide, the Best Lawyers Global Business list, and the Canadian Legal Lexpert® Directory for Labour and Employment.

Notably, several of Gleave’s cases have captured the attention of the media, establishing him as a sought-after commentator on Canadian employment law matters.

Having relocated his practice from Toronto to Hamilton, Gleave now resides with his family on a picturesque farm in historic Ancaster. Here, he indulges his passion for agriculture by raising Highland cattle and tending to his orchard. He also engages in various outdoor activities such as running and fly fishing.

What inspired you to pursue a career in labour law, and what keeps you passionate about it today?

Stephen Gleave: I was drawn to labour law due to its direct impact on people’s lives. The ability to advocate for workers’ rights and fairness in the workplace continues to drive my passion. I find immense satisfaction in ensuring that individuals are treated justly within the framework of the law, all while making sure I can achieve a favourable outcome for them.

Could you share a significant or particularly challenging case that you’ve handled in the realm of labour law? What made it memorable or unique?

Stephen Gleave: One of the most memorable cases involved representing a group of employees facing wrongful termination due to their union involvement. The complexity lay in navigating the nuances of employment contracts and labour laws to prove the retaliatory nature of the terminations. It was challenging but rewarding to secure justice for these people who were genuinely unsure of their future. 

From your experience, what are some common misconceptions or misunderstandings people have about labour law, and how do you address them?

Stephen Gleave: A common misconception is that employees often believe they have fewer rights than they actually do. I often educate individuals on their rights regarding fair wages, discrimination, or wrongful termination. It’s crucial to empower them with the knowledge they need to navigate the complexities of labour laws.

Given the ever-evolving nature of labour laws, how do you stay updated and adapt to changes in regulations and precedents?

Stephen Gleave: Continual learning is essential. I regularly attend legal seminars, subscribe to legal publications, and participate in professional networks to stay abreast of changes in labour law. Constant research and engagement are key to adapting and providing up-to-date counsel.

What do you find most rewarding and most challenging about working as a labour lawyer?

Stephen Gleave: The most rewarding aspect is being able to make a tangible difference in individuals’ lives by ensuring justice prevails, whether you’re representing the employee or the employer. The challenging part is managing the emotional aspects of cases, especially when representing individuals facing injustices in the workplace, that can be a bit challenging, especially if you’re new to the industry. 

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