Work. Life. Balance. Three words with the power to literally change lives – depending on which way the scales tip. Too many hours at work can bring on stress, a decrease in productivity, lack of sleep, and a lowering of the immune system. And that’s not a good outcome, especially in these times of COVID-19, when it’s more important than ever to stay healthy and well rested. Even in the fabulous Caribbean, it’s become more difficult to draw the line between when the work day begins and ends. Often, we just keep at it, or going back to it at all hours, simply because work is always there.
So what’s the answer? If we just put down the phone, ignore the inbox for awhile, and close the office door (from the outside)… guess what? There’s a whole world out there. Grab a short walk or a long hike in the fresh air, recharge the brain cells with a workout in the sun, meditate, swim, have a good belly laugh. The world at large, and our corner of it, is an intensely serious place that requires 100 percent of our focus – but not 100 percent of the time. As it turns out, discipline is not just a job requisite; it’s a play requisite, too. So take this as permission granted to get out of your chair, out of the workspace, and go find a bit of balance. Mindfulness. It’s a good thing.
Reading is a wonderful de-stressing tool and, I have to say, Business View Caribbean Magazine is a great online choice. This month’s BVC issue is particularly special with our focus on Trinidad & Tobago – where tourism is down but a positive outlook is alive and well in both the public and private sectors. As the Honorable Camille Robinson-Regis, Minister of Planning & Development shares, “We are focused on achieving sustainable economic growth through greater diversification of the economy as well as improving the social conditions and quality of life of citizens in an inclusive and environmentally sensitive manner.”
In the Construction sector, Alescon Readymix Limited is diversifying their business, with an ever-present regard for contributing to community culture. And Phoenix Park Gas Processors is intent on growing the value chain through automation and digitization, thereby strengthening its competitive position in regional and international markets.
Innovation abounds in the Agricultural sector, and the Caribbean Agriculture Research & Development Institute (CARDI) is working hand-in-hand with farmers to realize future growth of the industry throughout the Caribbean. When it comes to preparing and enjoying the iconic Islands recipes, manufacturer RHS Marketing is a winner with their “Karibbean Flavours” brand of incredibly tasty seasonings and spices.
Keeping the good health of customers always top of mind, Trinidad’s V&S Pharmaceuticals is now advancing their marketing and social media initiatives to capture the attention of the younger generation for their wellness products. Meanwhile, in Jamaica, Fontana Pharmacy is also adapting to meet customers’ needs – by expanding their exceptional retail offerings.
It’s a pleasure to share all this positive news in our February edition. Wherever you are, I hope you’ll take the time to discover the perfect work/life balance that is the best fit for you in these unusual times. Be well and enjoy the read, my friends!
Lorie Lee Steiner
Editor in Chief
