Balancing Life: Creativity, Exercise, and Stress Relief

When my children were very small, there was no alternative but to focus on them after a long day of work.  Reading bedtime stories and bathtime are the perfect antidote to a difficult or busy day!  Now they are away at University, I have more time, and have recently resumed an interest in drawing and painting.  Having a creative outline that requires both concentration and relaxation is a great way to change gears after a demanding day or week.


I am also a huge believer in the power of exercise to relieve stress, both physically and mentally.  From early days as an agency account director, to my role now, finding time in my day to move has been important.  I think variety is important too, and as I have moved my locations, different options have appealed from 'Absolute Abs' and steps classes just off Oxford Street in London, running around Stanley Park in Vancouver, boxing in NYC's Soho, barre classes and pilates in the Financial District, to my current mix of online yoga classes, Peloton and in-person cardio and strength training.  I recently added daily meditation to the mix too.

Vanessa Cartwright

NA & UK CEO, Astound Commerce

Balancing Act: How Top CEOs Tackle Stress in Their Roles

Go to article: CoverGo to article: EditorialGo to article: Table of ContentsGo to article: Table of ContentsGo to article: parcelLabGo to article: Empowering Store AssociatesGo to article: 2023: Retail's Standout YearGo to article: Year-Defining Retail MomentGo to article: 2023: Retail's Standout YearGo to article: The Book That Left a Lasting Impression on MeGo to article: Mercatus AdGo to article: 2023: Retail's Standout YearGo to article: Year Of Retail EvolutionGo to article: 2023: Retail's Standout YearGo to article: Leadership RootsGo to article: How Childhood Shapes CEOsGo to article: Foundations Of LeadershipGo to article: Wisdom From Visionary MindsGo to article: parcelLabGo to article: Foundations Of LeadershipGo to article: How Top CEOs Tackle Stress In Their RolesGo to article: How Top CEOs Tackle Stress In Their RolesGo to article: Leadership In FocusGo to article: Leadership In FocusGo to article: Shifting Mindsets In The Tech EraGo to article: Shifting Mindsets In The Tech EraGo to article: Hivery AdGo to article: Leadership EssentialsGo to article: leadership essentials: the key character trait for successGo to article: My Favorite QuoteGo to article:  The Key Character Trait For SuccessGo to article: Heartfelt Choices: From Compliance To CommerceGo to article: Leadership Lessons: Embracing Humility And Inspiring TalentGo to article: Recharging The Mind: The Power Of Personal PursuitsGo to article: Revitalizing Escape: Impact On Work PerformanceGo to article: parcelLab