We were lucky to catch up with Andy Ramirez recently and have shared our conversation below.
Alright, Andy thanks for taking the time to share your stories and insights with us today. It’s always helpful to hear about times when someone’s had to take a risk – how did they think through the decision, why did they take the risk, and what ended up happening. We’d love to hear about a risk you’ve taken.
I grew up seeing my hard working dad super dedicated to his family, work, and ministry. For years, he would spend countless hours as a pastor in the heart of East Los Angeles providing physical and spiritual food to immigrants, the poor, the businessman, youth from broken homes, and even those caught into gangs and drugs. In addition to this, he founded the first Christian Spanish-speaking TV and radio programming in Southern California. On top of this, he translated for Billy Graham and many world reknowned people. The man worked tirelessly to do the most good. That was my heritage and I followed suit to incorporate this dedication in my career. However, one thing I did not learn so well was how to rest and recharge. Some where along the way, I felt it was my duty to honor my father and do the most good, even if it cost me my health until one day I took the risk to seek a determined rest.
For many of us high performing, data driven, results oriented professionals, the truth is, we can juggle more and run faster than most. We thrive on performance and impact. Yet, our body is now shouting, “it’s time to slow down, get refreshed, and recalibrate or else something will burn out”.
According to Forbes, “the human body is built to thrive on a series of short sprints. This is why taking a walking break—even only for a few minutes—can offer you the refresh you need to persevere through your day.” In other words, determined breaks promote physical and mental power surges, creativity, and increased productivity. Other benefits include less stress build up, a reduction of mood swings, and healthier relationships.
Determined rest is not laziness. Rather, it is silent nourishment for the soul, body, and mind. Thousands of years ago, the Psalmist wrote, “my soul, wait silently for God alone, for my expectation is from Him”. Shutting down in quietness is a sacred time to refill the gas tank of your inner being as the Creator restores His masterpiece. The more we remember this universal law, the greater the output we will see at work and at home (remember, those at home need you most).
Here are a few practical steps I practice in pursuing a determined rest:
1. Enjoy a true 15 minute break
Throw a cool towel over the eyes and think of one person or one thing you ought to be grateful for
2. Stretch & Exercise
This will focus the mind and regulate both neurotransmitters and other hormones.
3. Practice Sleep Hygiene
Follow a nightly routine and keep it consistent. Open the Psalms and Proverbs for wisdom and strength. People who lived long ago, documented truths that made them better leaders and better friends. Finally, unplug from electronics 30-60 minutes before bedtime, and dim your lights to allow your body’s natural melatonin production to collaborate with you. These steps along with a grateful heart will give you the power and endurance to win the race.
References:
Psalm 62:5 https://biblehub.com/
Awesome – so before we get into the rest of our questions, can you briefly introduce yourself to our readers.
I am an experienced municipal leader serving as a Public Works Director and Water Board Director. I cultivate and empower cohesive teams to accomplish any challenging project by developing and empowering talent. I also enjoy blogging on my website andyramirez.org. At my website I share motivational truths to help people become better leaders.
What do you find most rewarding about being a creative?
I feel most rewarded when I can creatively guide others towards facing their fears even after a critical failure. I enjoy showing others how to how decisive encoruagement is master key for success. As Collin Powell once said, “Positivity is a force multiplier”.
Looking back, are there any resources you wish you knew about earlier in your creative journey?
Seeking many mentors from a wide range of backgrounds. I have found that this helps a person more quickly organize the puzzle of life and create avenues of opportunity.
Contact Info:
- Website: andyramirez.org
- Instagram: instagram.com/andyramirezofficial
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/ramirezmailbox
- Linkedin: linkedin.com/in/andyramirez7
- Twitter: twitter.com/1andyramirez
Image Credits
Image: Andy Ramirez, Beaumont, California
Photographer: Kim Jarvis, Beaumont, California