How I Thrive takes an inside look at founders, entrepreneurs and leaders and the behind-the-scenes self-care work they do to in order to live balanced, happy lives. Today's edition is with Rae Wellness founder Angie Tebbe, who is a big believer in an early morning wakeup for the purpose of grounding and weekend naps.
Age: 39
City: Minneapolis, MN
Company: Rae Wellness, a supplement company that stands for wellbeing for all.
Role: Founder and CEO
Morning routine:
Rise early. I always used to find mornings stressed and rushed, until I realized how important it was to create rituals that work for you. Since becoming a CEO, I have made intentional choices about mindset and routine to make sure I show up for my family, team, and partners.
I wake up at 5:45 a.m. to ensure I have a few moments to myself before my household begins to rise, beginning with my six-year-old at six a.m! I find that I'm my best when I can first ground myself in gratitude, especially right now given everything going on in the world.
I also make sure not to start the day with my inbox. I recently changed my own habits and no longer check my emails in the morning; it has helped me be less reactive and more present and patient as I start my day. I tackle important tasks early. I minimize distractions and give myself a couple of completely uninterrupted hours to work in the morning before any meetings. I find that I’m more productive and “fresh” to tackle challenging questions or needs of the business right away.
The first thing I do after work:
I try to "bridge" my work life to the next steps of my evening. This is important, especially because so many of us are still working from home. I close my computer, I take five minutes to stretch and breathe, and I allow myself a bit of quiet. This sets my mind in the right place so that I can be present for my partner and kids.
Dinner ritual:
My husband and I love to cook! We often take turns, but always have a meal plan— with two hungry kids and another on the way, it is so important to be prepared and stocked with nourishing food that can be made quickly.
Nighttime routine:
I unwind first by putting my boys to bed. We read books and talk about our best moments of the day. After that, I’ll catch up with my husband — we try to make it a priority to download with each other. Lastly, I’ll take a bath and climb into bed to practice yoga nidra as my form of meditation. It works for those with a wandering mind at night! I have tried many tactics and other meditation practices, and this has been my go-to for years. Also available in shorter 10 and 20 minute meditations for when time doesn’t allow.
Self-care guilty pleasure:
I love taking naps on the weekend. Recently, it has given me an incredible boost of energy to take an hour alone and rejuvenate. Especially since I'm pregnant, I'm trying to rest when I can get it.
Workday self-care hack:
I like to work out in the morning, but being at home has changed my routine a bit. I typically work out on week days, and on weekends I’ll spend the mornings with my husband and boys instead. Due to quarantine, I’ve been doing two smaller workouts during the day – even if it’s a walk outside with my kids. Getting it in is the most important part, so I try not to worry if the time slot changes given everything we're all trying to juggle right now.
How do you define self-care?
Self-care is supporting your overall wellbeing. Wellbeing is the experience of our mind and bodies together. It’s having a full heart, a calm mind, and a healthy body. It’s also having a sense of meaning or purpose and the ability to manage stress. And when you’re well and nourished, you can help others shine.
Favorite childhood toy or hobby:
State of your (email) inbox:
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