I like to start each day with a 5k row on a Concept2 RowErg at my local gym. It’s a passion that has led to me becoming a world record holder.
Here’s why I do it..
Sales is often glamorised - big wins, strong earnings, fast-paced environments. But the reality is more demanding. Behind every deal are calls, follow-ups, missed opportunities, and rejection. It’s a role that tests you professionally and personally.
After 30+ years in sales recruitment, I’ve seen that the best sales professionals aren’t just skilled, they’re resilient. And that resilience is built on how well they look after themselves.
Sales is a performance role. You’re expected to show up every day with energy and focus, regardless of yesterday’s result. That’s hard to sustain without the right foundations.
Why it matters:
When you’re well-rested, active, and mentally balanced, you handle pressure better, think more clearly, and stay consistent. When you’re not, performance often dips - not due to ability, but because the foundations aren’t there.
What helps:
• Keep it simple - 20–30 minutes of daily movement goes a long way
• Use movement as a reset between calls or meetings
• Prioritise sleep - it directly impacts mood and decision-making
• Be mindful of quick fixes like caffeine and sugar. Eat well.
Mental fitness:
• Rejection is part of the process, not personal
• Focus on controllables such as activity, conversations, progress
• Set boundaries where you can, to avoid burnout. Enjoy your downtime.
• Talk about it - whether it’s with colleagues, mentors, or friends, sharing the challenges of the role can make a big difference. You’re rarely the only one feeling the pressure.
The long game:
The most successful sales careers aren’t built on short bursts of intensity, they’re built on consistency over time. And consistency is much easier to maintain when you’re operating from a place of physical and mental strength.
Looking after yourself isn’t a “nice to have” in sales; it’s a key part of performing at a high level. It doesn’t require perfection or drastic changes, just small, deliberate habits that support you day in, day out. Because at the end of the day, the better you feel, the better you perform. And in a profession as demanding as sales, that edge really matters.