In an era of economic, political, and social uncertainty, a new generation of CEOs is reshaping the way leadership and personal wellbeing intersect.
A recent study by One Strategy Group reveals that pre-IPO founders are placing a strong emphasis on sleep, mental health, and exercise—challenging the long-held notion that relentless work is the only path to success. This shift may signal a broader transformation in how leadership is approached in today’s fast-paced world.
Ultimately, the next generation of CEOs is redefining leadership by prioritising physical and mental health, signalling a potential shift towards healthier corporate cultures.
Sleep as a leadership strategy
Historically, CEOs have worn sleep deprivation as a badge of honour. However, the report found that 72 per cent of next-gen CEOs now get at least seven hours of sleep per night—a stark contrast to past norms.
Experts like Dr. Scott Kutscher emphasise that prioritising sleep isn’t just good for individuals; it’s a step toward dismantling the toxic “always-on” culture. Yet, the question remains: Are these CEOs extending their wellness priorities to their teams?
A growing focus on mental health
Leading a startup comes with immense pressure, and while stress can be a motivator, unchecked levels lead to burnout. Kathy Pike, CEO of One Mind, warns that an overabundance of stimulation and pressure can quickly push leaders into unhealthy stress levels.
The report highlights the importance of setting a “North Star” to focus on priorities, helping CEOs avoid constant reactive decision-making that drains long-term energy and focus.
Also Read: Work-life balance in the startup world: Myth or achievable goal?
Fitness as the new work-life balance
Another striking trend is how CEOs are integrating exercise into their lives. Nearly two-thirds of next-gen CEOs exercise at least three times per week, treating fitness as a tool for improving focus, mood, and resilience.
Former Crescent Health founder Josh Collin sees this as a sign that successful founders recognise the long-term value of fitness—not just for physical health but also for sustaining high performance in demanding roles.
A culture shift in the making?
This movement toward health-conscious leadership presents an important question: Are these changes limited to CEOs, or will they inspire broader shifts in workplace culture?
If the habits of next-gen founders become embedded in company structures, we could see a future where wellbeing is prioritised at all levels of an organisation—not just at the top.
Read the full report here.
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