BOSS Moves: How to Stay Healthy When You’re Running the Show By: Shavonne Reed

Shavonne Reed is an acclaimed speaker, award-winning entrepreneur, and marketing executive. As founder and CEO of OPUA, a health and wellness company, she focuses on chronic disease prevention. A trained journalist and host of the Future Health NOW podcast, she’s passionate about promoting healthier lifestyles and generational health.

Let’s be real—entrepreneurship is a full-contact sport. You’re juggling meetings, clients, emails, employees, finances, and about a hundred other things before lunchtime. The grind is real, and the last thing you feel like doing is squeezing in a workout or making a green smoothie when coffee and adrenaline seem to be holding you together. But here’s the deal—your business is only as strong as you are, and if you burn out, everything goes down with you. Prioritizing your health is not a luxury; it’s a power move.

Why Self-Care is a Business Strategy

Think about it—would you run your business on outdated software, broken tools, and zero maintenance? No way. Your body and mind are your ultimate assets, and keeping them in peak condition is the smartest investment you can make. Studies show that entrepreneurs who prioritize their health have increased focus, more energy, and make better decisions. Plus, let’s be honest—when you feel good, you show up as the best version of yourself.

The Myth of “No Time”

“I’m too busy to work out.” “I don’t have time to cook healthy meals.” Sound familiar? Here’s the truth: You don’t need hours in the gym or a strict diet to see results. Small, consistent habits can change the game. Try these simple power moves:

1. Micro Workouts: You don’t need a full hour at the gym. Sneak in a 10-minute HIIT session, stretch while on calls, or take the stairs instead of the elevator. Movement adds up!
2. Hydration Station: Water fuels brain power and keeps you from reaching for the third (okay, fifth) cup of coffee. Keep a water bottle on your desk and make hydration a non-negotiable.
3. Smart Snacking: Keep healthy, grab-and-go snacks nearby—nuts, protein bars, fruit, or yogurt. Avoid the sugar crashes that make you feel sluggish.
4. Walk-and-Talk Meetings: Who says meetings have to be seated? Take calls while walking, hold standing meetings, or step outside for fresh air while brainstorming.
5. Sleep Like a CEO: Your brain needs rest to make high-level decisions. Aim for at least 6-7 hours of quality sleep. Trust me—your productivity (and mood) will thank you.

The Benefits of Being a Healthy CEO

When you prioritize your well-being, you’re not just doing it for yourself—you’re doing it for your business, team, and clients. Here’s what happens when you take care of yourself:

• Increased Energy & Focus: Say goodbye to brain fog and exhaustion. More energy means more innovation, better problem-solving, and clearer decision-making.

• Less Stress, More Success: Exercise and proper nutrition reduce stress hormones, making you more resilient when challenges arise.

• Boosted Confidence: When you feel strong and healthy, you show up with a presence that commands the room.

• Longevity in Business & Life: What’s the point of building an empire if you’re too sick or exhausted to enjoy it?

Make the CEO's Choice

You are your business’s most valuable asset. Treat yourself like the BOSS you are and invest in your well-being. Small steps today lead to massive results down the road.

So, BOSS—what’s your next power move? Take a walk, drink some water, or book that workout. Your future self will thank you! #FutureHealthNow

Learn more about Shavonne at www.opua.agency Instagram: www.instagram.com/iamshavonnereed