Francisco Calvao’s Post

🎿 This week, I attempted skiing for the very first time and absolutely LOVED every second of it...despite that I'm normally a 🌞 sun ❤️ loving, open water swimmer! 🏊♀️ My key lessons from this week have been: 1️⃣ Courage and Risk-Taking: Trying a new sport can be daunting, but I quickly realised that courage and embracing calculated risks are essential for growth in both skiing and our careers. Stepping out of our comfort zones and taking on new challenges can lead to great achievements. 2️⃣ Adaptability and Resilience: Skiing requires being adaptable to changing conditions and unexpected obstacles. Just like in our work lives, being able to adjust our approach, learn quickly from setbacks, and bounce back with resilience are key attributes for success. 3️⃣ Patience and Perseverance: Skiing doesn't come naturally to everyone, and it often takes time to find your balance and rhythm. Similarly, in our professional journeys, it's important to exercise patience and persevere through difficulties, knowing that progress and mastery take time and effort. 4️⃣ Focus and Concentration: When you're skiing down a slope, your full attention is required to maintain stability, control speed, and react to the surrounding environment. Similarly, in our work, focusing on the task at hand and blocking out distractions can significantly enhance productivity and quality of output. 5️⃣ Trust and Collaboration: Learning skiing involved trusting the instructions of my instructor and working collaboratively with fellow skiers. This reminded me of the importance of trust and teamwork in achieving common goals, just as it's crucial in any workplace setting. 6️⃣ Goal Setting and Progress Tracking: Skiing provides a tangible sense of progress as you conquer new slopes and improve your technique. Similarly, setting clear goals and tracking our progress in our professional lives can serve as powerful motivators, helping us achieve our desired outcomes. So here's to embracing new experiences, challenging yourself, and keeping on pushing your boundaries! Who knows what new skills I will be learning next month...(yes, I do have a plan!) #skiingadventures #workskills #professionalgrowth #embracechallenges

🎿 Took on the Slopes for the First Time! 🏔️ I did something I never thought I'd do: I went skiing for the very first time! As someone who's not particularly adept at sports involving speed or balance, this was a huge step out of my comfort zone. But you know what? It taught me some valuable lessons that I believe are applicable far beyond the slopes. Here are a few takeaways from my skiing adventure: Conquering Fear: Stepping onto those skis, I had to confront my fear head-on. I realized that sometimes, the biggest obstacle to trying something new is our own fear. Once I pushed past that initial hesitation, I found a whole new world of possibilities waiting for me. The Power of Focus: When you're zooming down a mountain, every ounce of your concentration is focused on the task at hand. I discovered that when I committed myself fully and concentrated like my life depended on it, the level of focus I achieved was truly remarkable. It's amazing what we can accomplish when we give our full attention to the task in front of us. Starting Small, Moving Forward: Skiing taught me the importance of starting small and gradually building up. Just like on the slopes, in life, it's okay to take things one step at a time. By starting with manageable challenges and steadily progressing, we can achieve things we never thought possible. Resilience and Perseverance: Let's face it: learning to ski involves a fair amount of falling down. But each time I stumbled, I learned to take a deep breath, gather my strength, and pick myself up again. It's okay to stumble and even rest for a moment before embarking on the next leg of the journey. The important thing is to keep moving forward, no matter how many times you fall. Overall, my first skiing experience was not just a thrilling adventure on the slopes, but also a valuable lesson in overcoming fear, staying focused, taking things one step at a time, and embracing resilience. #Skiing #LifeLessons #PersonalGrowth

🎿 Lessons from Cross-Country Skiing: Perseverance and Resilience 🏔️ As we navigate life's slopes, we encounter many falls. But falling isn't failing; staying down is. Cross-country skiing taught me that setbacks are part of the journey. The path to success is strewn with snowdrifts and icy patches. ❄️ Picture this: I'm gliding along the pristine snow, the crisp air filling my lungs, and then—bam! Gravity asserts its dominance, and I find myself sprawled on the ground, skis akimbo. My ego bruised, I glance around. Fellow skiers glide past, their gazes a mix of pity and amusement. But I refuse to stay down. ⛷️ Getting up on skis is akin to solving a complex puzzle. Each limb has a mind of its own, and coordination becomes a distant dream. As I flail about, I notice two types of people: those who ski gracefully by, offering encouraging smiles, and those who trudge on, indifferent to my plight. Life mirrors this duality. 🤝 My family, extend their hands. They've seen their fair share of falls—both literal and metaphorical. Their unwavering support reminds me that we're not meant to navigate life's slopes alone. It's okay to lean on others, to accept their help without shame. 🌟 As I regain my footing, I ponder the judgmental glances. People will always have opinions—some uplifting, others dismissive. But it's our resilience that defines us. We can choose to rise, dust off the snow, and continue our journey. Or we can let their stares weigh us down. 🌞 Life's peaks are rarely reached without a tumble or two. Whether it's a failed project, a broken relationship, or a missed opportunity, we all experience setbacks but it is how we respond that matters most. #mindset #keepgrowing #helpinghand

🎿 Embracing Evolution: How Skiing Fuels Personal Growth 🏔️ "We are born with nothing, yet over the years, we define who we are, what we do, and what makes us feel alive. It's a living process, a constant evolution fueled by non-conformity and letting go of fear. Today, I stand as someone new, different from who I was yesterday and who I will be tomorrow. And, remarkably, skiing plays a pivotal role in this incredible journey of self-discovery and growth. Skiing isn't merely a sport; it's a metaphor for life's beautiful transformations. Each run down the slopes presents a canvas for learning: resilience in face of challenges, courage in tackling steep inclines, and adaptability in navigating unexpected terrains. The mountains teach us to embrace change, to revel in the unknown, and to find strength in our vulnerabilities. As the crisp mountain air fills my lungs, I'm reminded that growth resides beyond comfort zones. The thrill of carving through fresh powder echoes the exhilaration of pushing boundaries, refusing to be confined by limitations. In skiing, as in life, progress emerges when we shed inhibitions and embrace the unfamiliar. So, here's to the adventure seekers, the risk-takers, and those who find solace in the snowy slopes. Let's continue this journey of self-evolution, finding new versions of ourselves with each turn we take. Join me in celebrating the transformative power of skiing in shaping who we are and who we aspire to become. Together, let's ski into new horizons of personal growth and self-discovery. 🚀❄️ #SkiingForGrowth #EmbraceTheJourney"

How can you boost self-confidence? Today Rania asks: — “Any tips for feeling more confident before jumping into a project?" — Welcome to Episode 1 of AskMatty! Here’s my answer, Rania: — I strongly believe we don’t need to build confidence before a project. I think confidence comes from achieving micro-results during that project. For example, let me tell you a story of when I was an athlete. When I started cross-country skiing, at 10, my confidence wasn’t high. From 6 to 8 I did alpine skiing — and the results were bad. So my confidence wasn’t great. So at 10, when I started cross-country skiing, I decided to do this: →    I bought a kind of journal (I still remember it — with some friendly ants) →    And jot down every single training What do I mean by that? I mean that at the end of every training I used to: →    Take a moment →    Grab the journal →    And write down the number of kilometers, the time spent skiing and the location. For example: →    Lavazè Pass (a location in the Dolomites, Italy) →    10 kilometers →    60 minutes At that time, I used to ski three times a week. So every 2-3 days I used to: 1.    Come back to my journal 2.    Jot down my “achievements” 3.    Look at my weekly improvements in terms of kilometers and time 4.    “Celebrate” my small improvements. That “awareness” allowed me to build my confidence — step by step. So, coming back to your question, Rania, my advice is this: →    Don’t wait to be confident before starting your project Start it and be sure to be constantly aware of your daily achievements. Even if they’re small. That’s gonna help you feel more confident — day by day. … and don’t forget those special 16 seeds :) — Alright! Thanks for your question, Rania. Now, question of the day: →    Do you like this content format? Let me know in the comments. “Let’s build a more inclusive world by spreading wellbeing globally” – Matty

I began skiing when I was six years old. I aim to spend time in the mountains each year. I learnt cross-country skiing first, followed by alpine skiing. Similar to other high-impact sports, skiing teaches you how to deal with adversity. While exercising, you learn about yourself, burn a great deal of energy, and keep your mind healthy. Skiing has taught me many valuable things concerning: How to increase stamina How to cope with adversity How to manage the unknowable How to keep your cool You get to know yourself in the mountains. Get to know your strengths, and what limits to stay clear of.   The most crucial aspect (and skill) of safe and successful skiing adventures is the ability to recognize and avoid dangerous situations.   I have always observed this important rule in the mountains and on the ocean: In the mountains, there is just one rule: Never give up! What is the key insight? In the end, your professional survival skills and expertise can be the difference between life and death. You must be aware of the red line.   In the mountains, the weather and circumstances may be unforgiving, and any error might be fatal. It tests your skills, mental capability, physical strength, and personal limits. You must be resilient, capable of enduring adversity, handle the unknown, and be relentless. In addition to my regular long-distance worldwide travels, sailing and skiing are two of my preferred pitstops for reflection and recharging. Generally, sports replenish my physical and mental strength and allow me to think about the future. Winning is all about your mental attitude. You must properly nurture and exercise it.   As the renowned French fashion designer Christian Dior famously remarked: "Whatever you do - for work or play - do it with passion."   With personal time spent enjoying the beauty of nature, it is essential to seek out difficult challenges and continually improve. Skiing provides me with the physical strength and mental clarity I need to plan for the future. Are you ready when life takes you outside the ordinary?   Be Bold. Be Daring. Be Different! #thoughtleadership #leadershipgrowth #passionandpurpose #liveinthepresent 

Just like skiing down a mountainside, facing life's challenges and business endeavors is always easier when you have someone to share the journey with. My wife and I have learned this lesson firsthand, as we navigate life's twists and turns together. As in skiing, where one might take a tumble on the slopes, in life, and in the dynamic world of business, we encounter moments of stumbling and challenges that test our resilience. However, what truly matters is having someone by your side who is there to support and lift you up when you need it the most. We have discovered that our relationship mirrors the dynamics of skiing - when one of us falls, the other is always there to extend a helping hand, to offer encouragement, and to provide the strength needed to rise again. Through the highs and lows, victories and defeats, we have discovered that the true beauty of our relationship lies in our ability to lift each other up when we fall. Just like skiing requires trust, communication, and teamwork, so does our relationship, and so does success in the realm of sales. We understand the importance of being there for one another, of lending a listening ear, and of offering unwavering support, even when the path ahead seems steep and uncertain. In life, we may lose our balance, face setbacks, or encounter obstacles that seem insurmountable. Yet, it is during these times that the strength of our bond shines through. We have learned to navigate life's twists and turns together, knowing that no matter how challenging the terrain may become, we have each other's backs. Remember, having someone to share the journey with makes all the difference in the world, whether it's on the ski slopes or in the world of business. Who is your rock? Post a fun picture in the comments #life #socialnetworking #culture

Recent skiing experience is not about sports or fun. However, this involves processes that parallel to our everyday activities and the objectives we aspire to achieve 💯. I feel Embarking on a skiing adventure is not just about gliding down snow-covered slopes; it's an exhilarating journey filled with excitement, challenges, and unforgettable experiences⛷⛷ 🗻. 🚀 Preparation:- Every great adventure begins with preparation. Packing your ski gear, checking weather forecasts, and ensuring you have the right equipment are essential steps. ❄ Exploring the Terrain:- Skiing isn't just about going downhill; it's about exploring. Whether you're weaving through tree-lined trails, tackling challenging moguls, or navigating wide-open bowls, every run offers a new adventure. Discovering hidden trails and secret stashes of powder adds an element of excitement to the journey. ⛷ Pushing Limits:- Skiing challenges you physically and mentally. Pushing yourself to try steeper slopes, faster speeds, or more technical terrain can be both thrilling and intimidating. Overcoming fears and mastering new skills is a rewarding part of the adventure. The Adventure Continues, The beauty of skiing is that the adventure never truly ends. Each time you hit the slopes, there's something new to discover, a new challenge to conquer, and a new memory to create. Whether you're a novice or a seasoned pro, the thrill of skiing is a never-ending journey of exploration and excitement. #accenture #ai #dataengineer #travel #skiing #businessanalytics #ds

🌲 Unspoken skiing rules in the Norwegian forest (that you might be doing wrong 😬) Hey there! I’m Varja Solt an instructor at GoSki, sharing some quick safety tips and unwritten rules for the trail. 1. 👉 Stick to the Right: Always stay on the right side of the trail. 2. ⬇️ Yield to Downhill Skiers: If you’re heading uphill, let those coming downhill go first—they’ve got a harder time slowing down! 3. 🤕 If You Fall: Get up fast or move out of the way—the next skier might not be able to stop! 4. 🚀 Faster Skiers: Don’t stress if someone faster catches up—they need to pass you safely. 5. ❌ Protect the Classic Tracks: Don’t walk or skate on prepared classic tracks—classic skiers won't appreciate it! 6. 🛑 Take Breaks Off the Trail: Step aside when resting. Avoid stopping at the bottom of hills or on curves, where other skiers can't see you (before it's too late). 7. 💡 Mind Your Headlamp: If you’re using a headlamp, angle it down or to the side to avoid blinding others. 8. 😄 Smile!: A good mood and friendliness make the trail better for everyone. Let’s all do our part for a safe and awesome skiing experience! 🌲 ❄️

Matthew Wilpers, my favorite Peloton Interactive instructor, said that skiing has so many metaphors for life. Gosh - is he right! Skiing leaves you alone with your thoughts for most of the day so you can reflect on how a certain trail brought clarity to the meaning of your life. A ski day can leave you both physically and mentally exhausted! I am on my fourth ski season and I find myself furiously writing in my notebook each day with learnings from my time on the  mountain. One such metaphor that struck me on a recent ski trip is how often we spend time charting our course. When skiing, you look at your ski map and decide which trails you want to take down. My first ski season was limited to the bunny slope, just skiing down the same path over and over. Now, as a blue run skier, I have so many more options for how to get down a mountain. I can take this blue, to that blue, to a green, back to the lift. I can take a blue that leads to a small black diamond that I think I can handle, back to a blue, back to the lift. But I can’t take this blue to that blue that only leads to a black diamond because I can’t ski down that one yet and I’ll get stuck. In life, we constantly ride a chair lift to the top of a mountain and have to figure out the best way down. The number of starting points available to us are determined by our current abilities and our confidence. Sometimes we have several starting points to choose from, but even if we only have a few, each starting point takes us down a different trail, and that trail leads to another trail. How do we know where to begin? How do we know where it will lead? How do we know if we can make it to the bottom? The more I ski, the better I get. The better I get, the more trails I have available to me. The more trails I have available to me, the more options I have to get from the top of the mountain to the bottom of the mountain, because I know I can make it to the bottom. This is not unlike our paths in life. The harder we work and the more resources we gather, the more trails we will have open to us. What course do you want to chart next? #pathways #course #skiing