The Mindful Leader: Transforming Fitness &amp; Wellness Businesses from the Inside Out

AFFINITY Podcast

Put PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS and watch your business flourish.

Dive deep into the latest trends in customer experience and team engagement, mindful leadership and management. Discover practical tools and strategies that you can use to build a people-centric culture, the foundation for sustainable long-term business growth and success.

Led by mindful leadership expert, Grant Ian Gamble, a best-selling author and true visionary with over 30 years of experience in leading teams to create innovative customer experiences, building engaged, inspired and fulfilled workforces, and developing leaders who prioritize genuine connection in their approach.

The guiding principle behind all of Grant’s work is PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS.

5 Reasons to Incorporate AI into Your Feedback Systems

by Grant Gamble | Business, Management, Mindful Leadership

Traditional data analysis methods typically focus on quantitative metrics, which can miss the nuances of human emotion and sentiment. AI-driven platforms, however, can parse immense amounts of data and text to go beyond mere numbers, offering a more holistic and insightful analysis.

The integration of AI systems like AFFINITY OS™ in understanding Team Member and Customer feedback and perceptions has revolutionized how companies approach feedback systems. Here are 5 reasons you should consider incorporating AI in your feedback analysis:

Embracing Abundance Mentality: A Mindset for Limitless Possibilities

by Grant Gamble | Business, Management, Mindful Leadership

In a world often viewed through the lens of scarcity, embracing an abundance mentality can be transformative, especially for leaders and entrepreneurs in the fast-paced fitness and wellness industry. This mindset shift, from viewing resources as limited to seeing the world as full of possibilities, is more than just positive thinking; it’s a strategic approach that fosters growth, collaboration, and innovation.

8 Reasons to Engage with AFFINITY OS™

by Grant Gamble | Business, Communication, Management, Mindful Leadership

In the rapidly evolving business landscape, CEOs and business leaders are continually seeking innovative solutions to stay ahead of the curve. AI-driven AFFINITY OS™ offers a suite of tools designed to enhance team member engagement and customer experience, and provide actionable insights in real time. Here are eight compelling reasons why engaging with AFFINITY OS can transform your business approach, offering a blend of advanced technology and insightful analytics to drive success.

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CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE & TEAM ENGAGEMENT: AFFINITY OS™ | WELLNESS INTEGRATION | MINDFUL LEADERSHIP: "THE AFFINITY PRINCIPLE"

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The Affinity Principle™ by Grant Gamble presents a formula for business success through a people-centric, mindful leadership approach.

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PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS.

Leverage the 2023 Fitness and Wellness Industry Trends

by Grant Gamble | December 5, 2023 | Business, Management, Mindful Leadership, Wellness

Leverage the 2023 Fitness and Wellness Industry Trends

The world of fitness and wellness is constantly evolving, and 2023 is no exception. With a focus on holistic health and sustainable practices, the current trends are reshaping the industry landscape. In this article, we explore the 2023 fitness and wellness trends in Australia, the Asia-Pacific region, the United States, Europe, and more, providing insights for mindful leaders in the fitness and wellness industry.

Australian Fitness and Wellness Industry Trends: A Blend of Technology and Holistic Health

In Australia, the fitness scene is embracing technology with open arms. Wearable tech is revolutionizing how fitness metrics are monitored, while online training platforms are making fitness more accessible. High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT continues to be popular, offering time-efficient workouts.

The wellness scene is equally dynamic, with a shift towards ‘mind eating’ and ancient practices like Yăng Shēng. Chronobiology and self-care studies are gaining traction, reflecting a deepening understanding of personal health. Greenwashing awareness and cycle syncing are also notable trends, indicating a more informed and proactive approach to wellness.

Asia-Pacific Fitness and Wellness Industry Trends: A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation

The Asia-Pacific region is witnessing substantial growth in its physical activity market, driven by diverse sectors like sports, fitness tech, and mindful movement. Consumer spending in recreational activities is soaring, particularly in countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and Australia.

Wellness priorities in the region are evolving, with a strong emphasis on traditional healing and holistic wellness. This shift is fostering opportunities for businesses to explore wellness concepts commercially. Corporate wellness programs are also gaining momentum, indicating a growing corporate interest in health promotion.

U.S. Fitness and Wellness Industry Trends: Emphasizing Longevity and Community

In the United States, the focus is shifting towards longevity and mental well-being. The diversity in workout intensity, impact of work-from-home on gym attendance, and gender differences in exercise habits reflect a nuanced understanding of fitness needs.

Wellness trends are centered around community-building activities, reconnecting with nature, and empowering women in wellness. The concept of “Gen W,” or the Wellness Generation, highlights the pivotal role of Gen Z and millennials in driving wellness engagement.

European Trends: Personalization and Holistic Well-being

Europe’s fitness and wellness scene is characterized by its variety and personalization. Trends like primal movement, affordable fitness, and mobility stretches are popular. The region is also seeing a rise in technological integration, with virtual reality offering new ways for engagement in wellness activities.

Sustainable travel, gut health awareness, and a focus on authenticity in media are other key trends, reflecting a broader societal shift towards holistic health and well-being.

Latin America and the Caribbean: Cultural Influence and Outdoor Activities

In Latin America and the Caribbean, dance-based workouts and outdoor activities are prominent. The wellness tourism sector is growing, with an emphasis on local cultural experiences and natural environments.

Middle East and North Africa: Cultural Shifts and Women’s Fitness

The MENA region is experiencing a rise in health awareness and government-led health initiatives. Women-only fitness facilities and traditional practices like yoga and Pilates are gaining popularity, reflecting both cultural shifts and growing health consciousness.

Sub-Saharan Africa: Urban Fitness and Traditional Practices

Urban areas in Sub-Saharan Africa are witnessing increased gym memberships and use of mobile health apps. There’s also a growing interest in outdoor sports and traditional African wellness practices, blending modern trends with cultural heritage.

South Asia: Yoga, Ayurveda, and Modern Fitness

South Asia, particularly India, is known for its traditional wellness practices like yoga and Ayurveda. Modern fitness trends, such as gym culture and online fitness coaching, are also becoming increasingly popular, blending ancient practices with contemporary approaches.

Canada: Outdoor Activities and Mental Health Emphasis

In Canada, there is a strong focus on outdoor activities like hiking, skiing, and snowboarding, driven by the country’s natural landscapes. Wellness retreats and mental health are also significant aspects of the Canadian wellness culture.

Member Experience in the Fitness and Wellness Industry

The global wellness market, including the gym and spa markets, is seeing significant growth. Corporate wellness programs are proving to be a lucrative investment for businesses, with substantial returns on investment. The trends in gym memberships and the rise of digital wellness offerings highlight the changing landscape of the fitness and wellness industry. A well-curated member experience is crucial in the long-term success of fitness and wellness businesses.

Conclusion

The fitness and wellness industry in 2023 is marked by a holistic approach that integrates physical health, mental well-being, and environmental sustainability. For mindful leaders in the industry, staying abreast of these trends is crucial for crafting strategies that resonate with the evolving needs of consumers. Whether it’s leveraging technology in Australia, embracing traditional practices in Asia-Pacific, focusing on community and longevity in the U.S., or personalizing experiences in Europe, the opportunities for growth and innovation are vast and varied.

Sources:

Wellness Creative Co. “Health & Wellness Industry Statistics 2023 – Market Data & Trends.” https://www.wellnesscreatives.com
Australian Institute of Fitness. “Fitness Trends in Australia.” Australian Institute of Fitness. https://fitness.edu.au.
House of Wellness. “Wellness Trends in Australia.” House of Wellness. https://www.houseofwellness.com.au
Mindbody. “Fitness and Wellness Trends in the United States.” Mindbody. https://www.mindbodyonline.com
European Spa Magazine. “GWS Predicts 2023 Wellness Trends.” European Spa Magazine. https://europeanspamagazine.com/gws-predicts-2023-wellness-trends
Polar Journal. “Fitness Trends 2023: Wellness & Workouts Next Year.” Polar Journal. https://www.polar.com/blog/fitness-trends-2023-wellness-workouts-next-year
Shopify. “Top 8 Health and Wellness Trends in 2023.” Shopify. https://www.shopify.com/enterprise/health-and-wellness-trends
Global Wellness Institute. “Asia-Pacific’s Physical Activity Market Now $240 Billion.” Global Wellness Institute. https://www.globalwellnessinstitute.org/asia-pacifics-physical-activity-market-now-240-billion
Euromonitor. “Megatrends: Wellness – Mapping Key Opportunities in Asia Pacific.” Euromonitor. https://www.euromonitor.com/megatrends-wellness-mapping-key-opportunities-in-asia-pacific/report
Market Data Forecast. “APAC Corporate Wellness Market Size & Trends | 2023 to 2028.” Market Data Forecast. https://www.marketdataforecast.com/market-reports/apac-corporate-wellness-market
Wellness Creative Co. “Gym Market Research & Industry Stats – 2023/24 Data & Analysis.” Wellness Creative Co. https://www.wellnesscreatives.com

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AFFINITY Podcast EPISODE 10 | Collecting and Leveraging eNPS for a People-Centric Culture, Mindful Leadership, Talent Development and Talent Retention

AFFINITY Podcast

Put PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS and watch your business flourish.

The guiding principle behind all of Grant’s work is PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS.

5 Reasons to Incorporate AI into Your Feedback Systems

by Grant Gamble | Business, Management, Mindful Leadership

Embracing Abundance Mentality: A Mindset for Limitless Possibilities

by Grant Gamble | Business, Management, Mindful Leadership

8 Reasons to Engage with AFFINITY OS™

by Grant Gamble | Business, Communication, Management, Mindful Leadership

see all articles

Let's Connect!

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE & TEAM ENGAGEMENT: AFFINITY OS™ | WELLNESS INTEGRATION | MINDFUL LEADERSHIP: "THE AFFINITY PRINCIPLE"

0475 866 592

The Affinity Principle™ by Grant Gamble presents a formula for business success through a people-centric, mindful leadership approach.

Learn more

PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS.

13 Factors that Combat “Quiet Quitting”

by Grant Gamble | November 13, 2023 | Business, Executive Coaching, Management, Mindful Leadership, Training

13 Factors that Combat “Quiet Quitting”

What is Quiet Quitting?

“Quiet Quitting” is a symptom of low Team Member engagement. However, you can combat quiet quitting with Intrinsic and Extrinsic factors, or drivers. As a leader or manager, you can hire for these Intrinsic drivers and influence the Extrinsic drivers through your actions and decisions over time.

Understanding and appreciating these drivers can significantly improve the level of engagement among your Team Members, so here is a quick 13-point summary.

Intrinsic Factors to look for when hiring and managing your team:

Autonomy:

– Empowering Team Members with a sense of control over their tasks and decision-making can foster improved engagement. This requires a degree of trust from you.

Meaningful Work:

– When Team Members find their work meaningful and aligned with their values, they are much more likely to be more engaged. Wherever possible, align Team Members with a role that feels meaningful and aligned.

Mastery:

– The opportunity to develop mastery and excel in their area of expertise can be highly motivating for individual Team Members. Encouraging Team Members to grow in relevant skills will give them a sense of mastery.

Relationships:

– Building positive relationships with colleagues and supervisors can also contribute to engagement. Creating a culture that allows time and space for positive relationships between Team Members will foster camaraderie.

Personal Growth and Development:

– Opportunities for personal and professional growth can also drive engagement. Providing continuing education for Team Members pays very real dividends.

Challenge and Variety:

– Providing challenging and varied tasks can keep Team Members stimulated and engaged. Cross training is a powerful tool for building resilience and engagement.

Extrinsic Factors affecting Team Member engagement:

Compensation and Benefits:

– Adequate and fair compensation is a fundamental extrinsic factor. Ensuring competitive salaries and benefits contribute to satisfaction, engagement and retention.

Work Environment:

– A safe, comfortable, and stimulating work environment can enhance engagement. This includes ergonomic workspace design, a positive organizational culture, and access to necessary tools and resources.

Recognition and Reward:

– Recognizing and rewarding Team Members for their contributions and achievements can boost morale and engagement. Simple expressions of gratitude go a long way toward driving this sense of being recognized and rewarded.

Work-Life Balance:

– Flexible working hours, remote working options, and promoting a healthy work-life balance are important for maintaining engagement. Finding the right balance in a hybrid work environment will not only drive engagement, but productivity will also follow.

Training and Development Opportunities:

– Offering opportunities for skill development and career advancement can also be motivating. This will often be unique to the individual but will always pay dividends.

Leadership and Management:

– Effective leadership and supportive management are critical. Managers who communicate well, show appreciation, and provide constructive feedback can significantly impact engagement.

Job Security:

– Providing job security and a stable work environment can also enhance engagement. Engagement will follow a focus on retention.

The relative weighting of these factors can vary greatly among different individuals and organizational contexts. However, some studies suggest that intrinsic factors have a stronger or more lasting impact on Team Member engagement than extrinsic factors. It’s often the intrinsic factors like meaningful work, autonomy, and personal growth that drive deeper engagement and satisfaction over the long term, although extrinsic factors like compensation and work environment are also crucial for baseline satisfaction and retention.

In practice, a balanced approach that addresses both extrinsic and intrinsic factors is often the most effective strategy for enhancing Team Member engagement. Continuous monitoring and real-time feedback through a tool such as AFFINITY OS™ will allow you to understand the specific needs and preferences of your team, and tailor your engagement strategies accordingly.

Gaining insights into your Team Members’ sentiments, feedback, and engagement levels is critical for fostering a positive work culture and improving overall engagement, productivity and performance. Here are 7 ways AFFINITY OS can measure and enhance Team Member engagement.

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AFFINITY Podcast EPISODE 10 | Collecting and Leveraging eNPS for a People-Centric Culture, Mindful Leadership, Talent Development and Talent Retention

AFFINITY Podcast

Put PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS and watch your business flourish.

The guiding principle behind all of Grant’s work is PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS.

5 Reasons to Incorporate AI into Your Feedback Systems

by Grant Gamble | Business, Management, Mindful Leadership

Embracing Abundance Mentality: A Mindset for Limitless Possibilities

by Grant Gamble | Business, Management, Mindful Leadership

8 Reasons to Engage with AFFINITY OS™

by Grant Gamble | Business, Communication, Management, Mindful Leadership

see all articles

Let's Connect!

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE & TEAM ENGAGEMENT: AFFINITY OS™ | WELLNESS INTEGRATION | MINDFUL LEADERSHIP: "THE AFFINITY PRINCIPLE"

0475 866 592

The Affinity Principle™ by Grant Gamble presents a formula for business success through a people-centric, mindful leadership approach.

Learn more

PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS.

Diversity in Hiring: How Seasoned Talents Advance Customer-Centric Goals

by Grant Gamble | November 2, 2023 | Business, Executive Coaching, Management, Mindful Leadership

Diversity in Hiring: How Seasoned Talents Advance Customer-Centric Goals

Linda had been a housekeeper at a motel for 25 years when she decided it was time for a change. She didn’t stray too far from her calling, but decided to apply for a job as a housekeeper in the new Fitness and Wellness Center that had opened in her hometown.

I just happened to be the General Manager of that center and immediately realized that Linda was an absolute gem.

She ticked the boxes on my 4 non-negotiables: 1. (High) Character; 2. (Great) Attitude; 3. (Wonderful) Personality; 4. Emotional (Intelligence). My acronym for this is C.A.P.E. because these Team Members are Superheroes, and Superheroes wear CAPEs 🙂

The thing about these qualities is that they’re impossible to teach. They’re inherently wired into those Superheroes. We can teach skills, but it’s rare to see someone’s inherent wiring modified.

Linda proved to be everything I had hoped for, and more. Members and Team Members almost unanimously voted Linda to be our customer service superstar, year after year.

Linda is retired now, but at the time this move to a second-career position was a huge win for her, and for us. We became friends and one day she confided in me that she’d never even had a conversation with the General Manager of the motel she’d worked at for 25 years ☹️.

Diversity in Hiring: Unlocking Experience and Wisdom

Over the years, I have hired a lot of second-career and older Team Members into key member/customer facing roles, usually with enormous success. Ex-school teachers, former restaurant owners, ex-physical education teachers, former professional athletes, etc.

I am not ageist, and really appreciate the value of young team members as much as older team members, but there are tremendous benefits in hiring across all ages and when it comes to hiring second-career and older Team Members, here are 10 compelling reasons to consider this demographic:

Rich Life Experience:

Older Team Members have navigated a myriad of life scenarios, enabling them to empathize with customers on a deeper level. Their ability to relate to diverse customer concerns and provide heartfelt solutions can significantly enhance customer satisfaction.

Professional Maturity:

With age often comes a level of professional maturity and a well-honed sense of responsibility. Older Team Members tend to exhibit strong work ethics, reliability, and a sincere commitment to their roles, which is crucial in building lasting customer relationships.

Strong Communication Skills:

The refined interpersonal and communication skills of older and second-career Team Members are often invaluable in customer-centric environments. Their adeptness at active listening and clear communication fosters a conducive atmosphere for understanding and addressing customer needs.

Problem-Solving Prowess:

The blend of past career experiences and a mature perspective equips second-career Team Members with robust problem-solving abilities. They are often capable of devising innovative solutions to customer issues, enhancing the overall service quality.

Patience and Composure:

The ability to remain patient and composed in challenging situations is a hallmark of seasoned individuals. Their calm demeanor can be instrumental in managing demanding customers and maintaining a pleasant service environment.

Mentorship and Team Cohesion:

The mentorship from older and second-career Team Members can be instrumental in nurturing a culture of continuous learning and team cohesion. Their willingness to share knowledge and insights contributes to the professional growth of younger colleagues.

Adaptability to Change:

Despite the common misconception, many older and second-career Team Members are adept at adapting to new technologies and processes. Their eagerness to learn and grow can inspire a culture of adaptability within the organization.

Long-Term Loyalty:

Often, older and second-career Team Members are seeking stable work environments and are likely to exhibit higher levels of loyalty, reducing the turnover rate and associated costs.

Community Connection:

Having established connections within the community, older Team Members can provide a bridge between the business and its local clientele, enhancing the brand’s reputation and customer trust.

Sustainable Business Practices:

The value-driven approach of older and second-career Team Members aligns well with the rising trend of sustainable and ethical business practices. Their life experiences often translate into a conscientious approach to work, resonating well with the values of socially responsible consumers.

These are obviously generalizations, and there are always exceptions to the rule, but a frequently overlooked asset in customer-facing jobs is the wealth of experience and a nuanced understanding of human interactions that older and second-career Team Members bring to the table.

Diversity in Hiring and AFFINITY OS™

In the dynamically evolving landscape of customer-centric businesses, the core emphasis often sways towards adopting the latest technology or innovative strategies to enhance customer engagement and satisfaction. At AFFINITY OS, we use the latest AI technology to gauge member and Team Member sentiment, and we have found that the frequently overlooked assets that can positively impact the Member’s experience are the qualities and a nuanced understanding of human interactions that older and second-career Team Members bring to the table.

Wrapping Up

Investing in a diverse workforce that appreciates the blend of youthful innovation and seasoned wisdom can significantly propel a customer-centric organization towards sustainable success. By recognizing and harnessing the distinct advantages that older and second-career Team Members offer, businesses can not only enrich the customer experience but also foster a culture of inclusivity, mentorship, and continuous growth.

Take your customer service skills—and your team—to the next level with the AFFINITY in Customer Service Certification!

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AFFINITY Podcast EPISODE 10 | Collecting and Leveraging eNPS for a People-Centric Culture, Mindful Leadership, Talent Development and Talent Retention

AFFINITY Podcast

Put PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS and watch your business flourish.

The guiding principle behind all of Grant’s work is PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS.

5 Reasons to Incorporate AI into Your Feedback Systems

by Grant Gamble | Business, Management, Mindful Leadership

Embracing Abundance Mentality: A Mindset for Limitless Possibilities

by Grant Gamble | Business, Management, Mindful Leadership

8 Reasons to Engage with AFFINITY OS™

by Grant Gamble | Business, Communication, Management, Mindful Leadership

see all articles

Let's Connect!

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE & TEAM ENGAGEMENT: AFFINITY OS™ | WELLNESS INTEGRATION | MINDFUL LEADERSHIP: "THE AFFINITY PRINCIPLE"

0475 866 592

The Affinity Principle™ by Grant Gamble presents a formula for business success through a people-centric, mindful leadership approach.

Learn more

PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS.

From Lip Service to Real Service: Closing the Customer Care Gap

by Grant Gamble | October 8, 2023 | Business, Executive Coaching, Management, Mindful Leadership, Training

From Lip Service to Real Service: Closing the Customer Care Gap

“Talk is cheap,” goes the saying, and nowhere is this truer than in customer service. We’ve all encountered businesses singing praises of their ‘unbeatable service,’ only to be let down by the harsh reality.

The Paradox of “You’ll Love the Service”

Remember the company with the catchy jingle, “You’ll love the service”? Behind the scenes, their team was disengaged and demoralized, which inevitably showed in their customer service. Customers noticed, too, and took to social media and online reviews to express their disappointment. The result? Plummeting sales and dwindling finances.

What Metrics Don’t Lie About

New management arrived and took the first sensible step—they looked at root causes. A dreadful eNPS score (measuring team engagement) led to a horrific NPS score (measuring customer satisfaction). They decided to focus on improving the team experience first. As they nurtured their internal community, the eNPS score began to rise, and miraculously—or perhaps, logically—the NPS followed suit.

When Lip Service Becomes Real Service

Team morale soared, customers finally began to ‘love the service,’ and the financials reflected these improvements. The transformation was nothing short of revolutionary.

The AFFINITY OS Advantage

In a world that is increasingly transparent, where every misstep is scrutinized, what you say and what you do have to align. That’s where AFFINITY OS comes in. Using AI to harness real-time eNPS and NPS data, AFFINITY OS not only quantifies but also prioritizes feedback from both team members and customers. This is not mere data; it’s actionable intelligence.

The AOS Academy

Combined with our AOS Academy, we offer a turn-key solution to manage the gap between your promises and performance. It’s time to stop paying lip service to your values and start embodying them, with “PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS” as your guiding mantra.

Learn more about how AFFINITY OS and the AOS Academy can elevate your leadership style.

Until then, let’s focus on turning promises into performance, one mindful step at a time. Remember, it’s not about saying “You’ll love the service;” it’s about making sure people actually do.

Take your customer service skills—and your team—to the next level with the AFFINITY in Customer Service Certification!

learn more

AFFINITY Podcast EPISODE 10 | Collecting and Leveraging eNPS for a People-Centric Culture, Mindful Leadership, Talent Development and Talent Retention

AFFINITY Podcast

Put PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS and watch your business flourish.

The guiding principle behind all of Grant’s work is PEOPLE FIRST, ALWAYS.

5 Reasons to Incorporate AI into Your Feedback Systems

by Grant Gamble | Business, Management, Mindful Leadership

Embracing Abundance Mentality: A Mindset for Limitless Possibilities

by Grant Gamble | Business, Management, Mindful Leadership

8 Reasons to Engage with AFFINITY OS™

by Grant Gamble | Business, Communication, Management, Mindful Leadership