Essential: A Reflection for the Hospitality and Restaurant Industry

As the new year begins, we find ourselves grappling with the losses of the past year and celebrating the wins of all shapes and sizes.

As many of us are recouping from the holiday parties, catering events and large groups that define the holiday season across the hospitality and restaurant industry, we are left putting our lives back in order before the next battle.

Where does that leave you?

We can't empty our glass for an industry that leaves so many people broken or off balanced. This begs the question...

Who is pouring into your cup?

Community is one of the best parts of this industry. The whole crew—bartenders, chefs, servers—hanging out after shifts complaining about their days is a tale as old as time. What usually goes along with that? Overconsumption, booze, and other "party favors" is the norm.

But it doesn't have to be.

Now this is coming from someone who was known to frequent the watering hole across the street from my restaurant as a young chef. I always popped up at the house parties being thrown by coworkers. Did I have fun? Did I meet a lot of people? "Yes" is the answer to both of these. Not all of us make it out of these times. Having kids and finally meeting the woman God had for me saved me from myself.

What fills your cup?

In the spirit of the New Year, let's figure out how to keep your life filled with something that will move you forward (shout out to the energy drink promoters who have kept me moving on shifts since 2006). Stay focused on mental and physical health. Take advantage of health care that quality restaurant groups are providing for people. Get a hobby. Exercise. These are a reminder for myself as well! Fill that cup with something other than tequila.

Having balance will extend your career. There's nothing wrong with being a service industry lifer. I just hate seeing people who have done this forever with a life filled with things that they don't want.

Run The Food is committed to partnering with organizations to help us all feel happier and healthier. You are all essential workers. And taking care of yourself is essential to thriving in this industry.

Believe that.