Being absent as the CEO of my health almost cost me my life; let my experience be your wake-up call
I used to think I could juggle everything—work deadlines, family commitments and social obligations—all without missing a beat or suffering any hardships. I prided myself on being busy, thriving on the chaos of life. Little did I know that this relentless pace would almost cost me my life.
Even before this lifestyle took its toll, there were subtle signs that something just wasn’t quite right with my health. Over time, they grew. As it turns out, I was experiencing stroke symptoms, but I brushed them off, telling myself I was just stressed and tired. After all, who has time to slow down? I was too focused on being everything to everyone, and I ignored the most crucial aspect—my health.
Importantly, this was several years before COVID—a period in which people were far less focused on the damage that burning the candle at both ends can do. And while the pandemic caused many people to re-evaluate what matters to them, it’s easy to see that global industry is beginning to return to its old ways, especially with respect to mandates to return to the office.
Listen to your body
Being the CEO of your health means actively listening to your body, trusting your instincts and demanding the care you deserve. Unfortunately, many women, including myself, often hear the dismissive tones suggesting that our health concerns are merely “emotional” or the result of being “stressed.” This stereotype must change. We need to confidently embrace our role as advocates for our health.
In a 2021 study, the American Heart Association highlighted that women are more likely than men to have their heart attack symptoms misattributed to other causes, such as anxiety or indigestion. Research indicates that up to 50% of women presenting with heart attack symptoms were misdiagnosed initially. Like so many women, I ignored my intuition and the signs my body was giving me, which cost me precious time in seeking help.
Unlock your family history
One of the biggest mistakes I made was not being fully informed about my family history. I didn’t realize how crucial this knowledge was until it was too late. My father had experienced two carotid artery dissections (the cause of my stroke), yet I failed to connect the dots when I started feeling unwell. Had I remembered this important detail, I might have sought medical attention sooner, which could have led to a faster diagnosis and treatment.
Stay active, move more
Regular exercise is one of the best medicines there is. It offers numerous benefits, including improved cardiovascular health, increased strength and enhanced mental well-being, as regular physical activity has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Exercise can also boost energy levels, improve sleep quality and contribute to weight management, fostering a healthier lifestyle overall.
As a result, exercise plays a big role in helping prevent strokes: nearly 90% of strokes are preventable with lifestyle changes. Maintaining an active lifestyle not only mitigated the severity of my stroke, but it also greatly accelerated my recovery
Set boundaries for self-care
In our busy lives, we often forget to establish clear boundaries. This is essential for maintaining a healthy balance between work, family and personal time. It’s vital to prioritize self-care by dedicating time to activities that rejuvenate you, whether that’s exercise, listening to music or spending quality time with loved ones. It’s perfectly acceptable to decline commitments that add stress without bringing joy.
Know your numbers
Just as you keep a close eye on your bank account balance, it’s equally important to stay informed about your health numbers, such as cholesterol levels, blood pressure and blood sugar. These vital statistics provide insight into your overall health and can help you identify potential risks before they become serious problems. Regularly monitoring these numbers empowers you to make informed decisions about your lifestyle and healthcare. Don’t overlook the importance of knowing your health numbers—they could be the key to a longer, healthier life.
Get your ZZZs
Sleep plays a vital role in maintaining your overall health and well-being. Quality rest is essential for your physical health, emotional balance, and cognitive function.
According to the American Heart Association, getting less than seven hours of sleep per night is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Prioritizing sleep helps your heart and boosts your immune system, improves mood and enhances productivity
Say goodbye to ineffective care providers
Being the CEO of your health means taking an active role in your medical care, including the bold step of letting go of healthcare providers who don’t prioritize your needs or listen to your concerns. Just as a CEO evaluates their team for effectiveness and alignment with their vision, you have the power to seek out and hire medical professionals who truly advocate for your well-being. Find doctors who not only acknowledge your symptoms and concerns but also collaborate with you to develop a personalized care plan that addresses your health goals.
Take charge of your health
Embracing the role of CEO of your health is not just about making decisions; it's about taking decisive action to protect and prioritize your well-being. It requires the courage to listen to your body, the wisdom to understand your family history and the discipline to maintain a healthy lifestyle.
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