‘What do you envision doing for the next 40 years, Richard?” In my late teens, this was how my parents’ generation perceived a career: four decades of hard work before retiring at 60. For me, as I approach my 60th birthday, I feel incredibly fortunate to be well into the next chapter of my professional life. I began by creating businesses, then transitioned to running and expanding them. Now, as a chairman and investor, I dedicate my efforts to helping others reach their dreams. My energy remains boundless, and retirement isn’t on my mind.

Reflecting on my early career, I wish someone had told me that sustaining a long career is equally about maintaining good health and perseverance, irrespective of where you stand in the organizational hierarchy. We all grapple with mounting responsibilities that demand exceptional levels of stamina and resilience — physically, mentally, and emotionally. Personal and corporate growth relies heavily on staying healthy. Indeed, health is wealth, and it’s imperative for businesses to lead by example.

Alan Milburn, a former Labour health secretary, recently proposed an intriguing idea for driving Britain’s growth: integrating the long-term sick into the workforce.

If achieved, this could yield significant societal benefits. Healthier and happier individuals are more engaged, collaborate better, and have higher morale, which translates into more productive and rapidly-growing businesses. One of the standout achievements of the HomeServe team has been implementing measures that led to being ranked among the top 50 workplaces in Britain for employee wellbeing this year.

This summer, consider how you can revolutionize your health and the wellbeing initiatives within your company. Start with exercise. Many CEOs and chairpersons, myself included, rise at 6 am to hit the gym or go for a jog. Consistent physical activity is essential for wellbeing. Even a daily half-hour walk can enhance memory, cognitive function and reduce stress. If motivation is an issue, find a gym buddy (my sports-enthusiast kids often drag me off the couch) or form a small group at work to encourage each other.

As white-collar managers, excessive sitting and incessant virtual meetings are detrimental. For those still working from home, I recommend a stand-up desk. Though commuting might have been unpopular, it kept us more active, as did navigating the office or stepping out for lunch. Increased physical activity also improves sleep quality (I’ve shifted from believing five or six hours sufficed to aiming for seven and a half), enhancing alertness and energy throughout the day.

Next, focus on nutrition — a continuous challenge for me, especially amid endless temptations. Frequent business meals make turning down alcohol difficult, but I limit consumption to four times a week, aspiring to reduce it to three, even opting for kombucha (ginger or citrus hops).

Gradually, I’ve adopted a healthier eating routine, avoiding processed foods, though my love for crispy bacon persists. My breakfasts include porridge and blueberries, with weekend treats like poached eggs and avocado on brown toast, accompanied by vegetable juices such as celery or beetroot mixed with ginger. Lunches feature salads with chicken or salmon, reserving red meat for just once a week.

Additionally, corporate culture should emphasize wellness. Cultivate a sense of community from the top down to mitigate feelings of loneliness and bolster confidence. If possible, provide access to mentors, coaches, or peer support. Guidance isn’t just for CEOs. For example, Checkatrade, where I am chairman, offers employees gym memberships, fully funded mental health counseling sessions, comprehensive family health insurance, and a cashback scheme for medical expenses.

An investment of mine, Passenger Clothing, permits employees to work from anywhere globally for up to 12 weeks annually. The company facilitates frequent gatherings, covering hotel and travel costs, and encourages volunteer work, empowering the staff significantly.

Leveraging data can also augment our health. Beyond wearable tech, I enjoy monitoring my Coros watch for daily steps and sleep patterns. Tracking sick days provides a corporate health indicator, and it’s why I’m exploring “Medicine 3.0,” which focuses on preventive health measures. Proactively undergoing health checks, especially as we age, is crucial. Annual check-ups for boilers and cars are routine; why not extend the same care to our wellbeing? Early detection via comprehensive health evaluations is far better than reacting when it might be too late.

Managing a company means seven-day workweeks, irregular hours, and disrupted holidays. It demands quick decisions while being pulled in various, unpredictable directions. Although it’s a privilege, it takes a significant toll on our physical, mental, and emotional health, and relationships.

If this resonates, I strongly recommend some holiday reading such as “Outlive: The Science and Art of Longevity” by Dr. Peter Attia, focusing on preventive health. Or, listen to “Just One Thing” podcasts by the much-missed Dr. Michael Mosley, offering simple yet transformative healthcare tips. Post-summer, prioritize your team’s health.

This will not only expand your business but also prevent expanding waistlines.

Richard Harpin is the founder and chairman of HomeServe and Growth Partner, and owner of Business Leader magazine