The Hospitality Freedom Framework
By Daniel Zolinski | January 16, 2024
As I gathered financial documents and prepared wealth plans for my clients, I knew I didn’t want to be a financial advisor. I felt a lack of purpose in my first job after college. I was locked up in an office for eight to ten hours a day doing work that didn’t provide fulfillment. Yes, the pay was great. I couldn’t have asked for a better place to start. Yet, there was something missing. I yearned for more autonomy. If you sense a lack of fulfillment or freedom in the hospitality industry, then keep reading. Here is my framework that you can implement to find more enjoyment within the industry.
1. Where You Work
Physical location has perhaps the most noticeable impact on mindset, creativity, and productivity. Now, you’re probably in a position where you can’t work from anywhere, but optimizing your work location will enhance your focus and enjoyment for work. Put up some new lights, rearrange the area, purchase some indoor plants, and set them around the room. All these little adjustments make for an improved environment to be in. You won’t regret it.
2. When You Work
Rigid work hours can suffocate flexibility and freedom. Strive for work rhythms that sync to your natural energy flows. Are you most productive in the mornings or evenings? Block off those high-energy windows for your uninterrupted, deepest focus work. I also recommend blocking your calendar with time slots for exercise, family/friend meals, and weekly adventures to recharge. With some testing and tweaking, you’ll find the optimal rhythm that unlocks your fullest potential.
3. Who You Work With
Surrounding yourself with the right people is everything. It’s crucial you dedicate the time towards curating a dream team that shares your values. The hospitality industry can be draining, so helping fortify the mindset of those around you will in turn lengthen your own mental stamina for the more depleting days. I like to work with those dedicated to win-win relationships rooted in openness. Those unwilling to have courageous conversations don’t make the cut, which is essential in the hospitality industry. By thoughtfully choosing who you work with, you magnify impact while minimizing friction.
4. What You Work On
Aligning your work with your passions is the ultimate freedom. To identify your hospitality zone of genius, write out the following:
- Your inherent skills.
- Your passions.
- Market needs.
Your zone of genius lies at the intersection of this list. Now, review your current projects. Delegate, automate, or eliminate anything that is outside of your zone of genius. This clears the path and redirects your precious focus towards fulfilling and meaningful work. Continually rinse and repeat this process and you’ll never “work” another day in your life.
