Detaching to Balance

I am a simple character capable of surviving in a van or on foot. My most significant journeys have occurred as a spirit, where I have relied solely on myself and minimal belongings.

Even during my ultra-marathons, I recognised that detaching myself from material possessions provided me with profound self-awareness. I repeated this principle frequently during large festivals or remote travel, where I could shed my persona and reinvent myself for brief or prolonged periods.

The relationship between responsibility and freedom is akin to the philosophy of balancing complexity with simplicity. We will always experience a duality in life, with aspects of our being that we feel “stuck” with and aspects that we can “become unstuck from.” It is our ability to navigate between both extremes that makes us more versatile as humans.

As I have established my companies and properties, it has always been crucial to initiate them but allow them to grow through others. I have led the vision but have consistently valued the ideas and opinions of others. Ultimately, the direction is our choice. However, the more we empower others in our ideas, the faster the growth will be.

My personal experience has taught me that it is powerful to create and dream big. Nevertheless, it is essential not to take it too seriously. Be prepared to detach your identity from these possessions occasionally. This practice is beneficial and fosters greater sustainability in your approach.

Every time I took a break or engaged in inspiring activities that deviated from my plan, remarkable creative insights emerged. Occasionally, significant inflection points in my life arose from prioritising living over work. Ultimately, achieving well-being requires maintaining a balanced perspective.

Matt Chapman

Matt is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and HR futurist who has successfully transitioned from building a global HR search firm to focusing on well-being. He co-founded ChapmanCG, one of the world's most reputable HR search companies, which was acquired in 2022. Now, he is the creator of MC² Search, a well-being search company focused on developing a global talent pool of Chief Wellbeing Officers (CWOs), a role he believes will be part of the C-suite in future organizations. Matt’s passion for well-being extends beyond business; he was one of the creators of Bawah Reserve, an acclaimed wellness resort, and has completed six 250km ultra-marathons. He believes in using modern technology to empower talent and new-age business possibilities through remote working, a philosophy he has practiced since 2008.

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