I recently delivered a keynote and masterclass on Cadence and personal sustainability to an asset management firm. Sustainability, both at an organisational and individual level, is a key focus in that industry, and I wanted to share with you one of the ideas that really resonates across sectors: Rocks and pebbles.
A simple – but powerful – metaphor when it comes to resilience, wellbeing and personal sustainability.
Personal Sustainability: What Are Your Rocks?
Rocks are big-ticket habits or changes. The things that require planning, energy and, perhaps, investment. For example, hiring a personal trainer, overhauling your diet, or restructuring your sleep routine.
These actions can have a huge impact, but often require mental, emotional and logistical space to implement, which is why they tend to get postponed. We think: “I’ll start when things calm down.” But, of course, life rarely slows on its own.
Rocks are important and, when the time is right, can be transformational.
What Is the Role of Pebbles in Personal Sustainability?
Pebbles, on the other hand, are small, simple things you can start doing immediately.
For example, I often drop electrolytes into my water to improve hydration – an easy win that takes seconds – or, I’ll add an extra side of vegetables to a meal when eating out. Small actions that, when repeated consistently, layer on resilience.
That’s the real power of pebbles. You don’t need a complete lifestyle overhaul to start feeling better, you just need a few intentional choices, repeated regularly.
Why Rocks and Pebbles Matter When Building Personal Sustainability
Whether you’re preparing for a high-stakes project, navigating a tough season, or trying to stay well when balancing competing demands, resilience isn’t built overnight. It’s built through daily actions (your pebbles) that support your energy, mood and motivation.
When the time is right, you can add a rock or two, but don’t underestimate the value of the small things.
What Are Your Rocks and Pebbles?
So, here’s a question for you: If you had headspace right now, what ‘rock’ could you introduce into your life or routine?
And, maybe more importantly: What ‘pebbles’ could you start today?
Small habits, done consistently, become the foundation of lasting wellbeing and sustainable high performance. You may find adopting a “Be Arsed” mindset helps you get started!
Inspire Your People With Accessible Ideas Like Rocks and Pebbles
If this message resonates with you or your organisation, it’s one of the key ideas I explore in my keynote: Sustain: Personal Sustainability for Resilient Humans.
Book a free call and let’s talk about how we can support your teams to thrive, without burning out.
