Banking on Wellness: FAB’s Strategy for Success
In today's high-paced corporate world, the importance of wellness cannot be emphasized enough. As firms compete in the war for talent, a new dimension has emerged as a magnet for the modern workforce: wellness. In this episode, we dive deep into this crucial topic with an industry stalwart.
Meet Diego Carrete, Chief Wellness Officer at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB). Beyond his pivotal role at the UAE's largest bank, Diego is a fitness aficionado, guiding busy executives on their path to peak wellness. His journey, filled with ups and downs, offers invaluable insights for anyone aiming for holistic health.
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Chapter 1: The War for Wellness in Workspaces
Wellness is the new battleground in the corporate arena
Gone are the days when a simple paycheck sufficed. Today, the younger generations, especially Gen Z, value their well-being and work-life balance over a few extra bucks. Diego highlights this paradigm shift by drawing attention to how wellness acts as a magnet to attract talent. Not just any talent, but individuals who prioritize their health and see it as an essential component of their employment package.
The corporate climate is evolving
Employers are realizing that if they want to compete in the 'war for talent', they must offer more than just monetary incentives. And what could be more appealing than a holistic approach to wellness? With the meteoric rise of influencers earning huge sums without being shackled to a 9-to-5, traditional corporations have their work cut out for them. Diego's insights underscore the need for a revised value proposition for potential employees – one that prioritizes health and well-being.
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Chapter 2: Meet Diego: The Chief Wellness Advocate at FAB
Diego Carrete is a multifaceted individual with an inspiring journey
From struggling with weight issues and an eating disorder to becoming a beacon of health, his transformation is not just physical but also philosophical. Today, as the Chief Wellness Officer at First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), Diego's personal experiences shape his mission to uplift the well-being of FAB's vast workforce.
Beyond the gym and the diet charts, Diego is all heart
His role isn't just about ensuring the physical fitness of FAB's employees but also enriching their lives beyond office walls. He's a father, husband, and a man juggling many roles – making his mission at FAB deeply personal and profound.
Chapter 3: Beyond Physical Health
Physical health is the starting point of overall well-being
As Diego points out, commencing with physical activities can lead to positive physiological responses that make you feel better mentally. The intertwining of mental and physical health is a concept that cannot be stressed enough.
But feeling good is just the beginning
The true challenge lies in maintaining this state of well-being. Diego notes that the initial stages of any health journey may not remain the same as one progresses. The strategies that work initially may need to be tweaked or replaced as one's body adapts.
Chapter 4: The Modern Work-Life Conundrum
Today's work environment is starkly different
With kids making thousands just from online videos, the classic 9-to-5 model is challenged. Diego stresses the importance of looking beyond monetary benefits when trying to attract the younger workforce, highlighting the appeal of community, purpose, and, importantly, wellness.
FAB is spearheading this change in the corporate landscape
By embedding wellness as a core part of their employee value proposition, they're setting an example for other institutions worldwide. It's not just about the paycheck anymore – it's about the holistic experience.
Chapter 5: The Science Behind Wellness
There's a method to wellness
Diego's approach revolves around understanding the different stages people go through in their health journey. From recognizing a problem to finding its solution, Diego believes in tailored approaches for each individual.
Fundamentals matter
From hydration in UAE's arid climate to understanding the human body's natural rhythms like metabolic rates, Diego stresses the foundational knowledge required to maintain a healthy lifestyle. It's not just about hitting the gym; it's about a comprehensive understanding of one's body.
Chapter 6: Quick Health Nuggets from Diego
Hydration is crucial
Often, our body misinterprets thirst for hunger. In the sweltering climate of the UAE, not drinking enough water can quickly lead to chronic fatigue. Furthermore, despite our modern sedentary lifestyle, Diego reminds us of the importance of maintaining a decent step count for overall health.
Chapter 7: The Ultimate Currency is Energy
Energy is the new wealth
Diego passionately believes that the ultimate currency for busy executives isn't money but energy. With a holistic wellness approach, one can reclaim this lost energy, ensuring a vibrant life both inside and outside the office.
Remember, a company can replace you, but your family can't
Diego emphasizes the irreplaceable nature of personal relationships. Working late might earn brownie points at work, but at home, the only ones keeping track are your loved ones.
Conclusion
Diego Carrete's unique perspective on wellness, combined with his personal journey and role at FAB, offers invaluable insights for both individuals and corporations. His dedication to holistic health - encompassing mind, body, and soul - underscores the evolving needs of the modern workforce. As the boundaries between personal and professional life blur, a renewed focus on overall well-being becomes indispensable. Through his endeavors at FAB and his personal beliefs, Diego is leading the charge, emphasizing that in the modern era, wellness is indeed the true wealth.
Learn more about open banking and open finance by checking out this exciting episode of Couchonomics with Arjun. Join us as we chat with Diego Carrete, Chief Wellness Officer at First Abu Dhabi Bank, about wellness in the workplace.