Tag: Feel Good

I was sitting on a terrace, coffee getting cold in front of me, watching people pass by.

A man at the next table kept refreshing his inbox. Across the street, someone walked while talking into their phone, pausing as if the air itself was listening. At another table, a couple sat together, both scrolling, barely speaking.

Nothing dramatic. Just a normal day. Still, something felt familiar.

In conversations about life or work, people rarely asked “Does this feel right?”

They asked “Is there evidence?”

Research, numbers, stories of others who had tried and succeeded. Proof felt safer than truth.

Where shared stories used to hold us

Not so long ago, people leaned on something different. Shared meaning. Traditions. Tribes. Rituals that gave shape to life’s bigger questions.

I reflected on this in an earlier piece about how shared anchors have faded – The Decline of Religion: A New Search for Meaning – and how that leaves a quiet absence or even emptiness inside us.

In another piece, The Rise of Societal Refugees, I named what often follows: not aimlessness, but the feeling of being a stranger inside your own life – and moving to other places as a result.

People work, perform, connect. Yet something feels slightly off, like living someone else’s rhythm.

When tension turns inward

The first signs are small. A tiredness that lingers. A busyness that feels strangely empty. The sense of keeping up while losing touch with yourself.

When that happens, the advice is usually practical.

Work on yourself.
Improve your mindset.
Find a better routine.

So people try. And while trying, they look for reassurance. Proof that this discomfort is normal. Proof that the effort will pay off – eventually.

Proof helps them carry on. It “explains” unease. It gives language to a feeling. But some questions don’t show up in data. They arise in quiet moments. On terraces. On evening walks home. Late at night.

Questions about pace. Questions about meaning. Questions about whether this way of living still fits. Those questions don’t ask for proof. They ask for attention.

Maybe the shift isn’t about finding better answers. Maybe it’s about listening more closely.

And slowly learning the difference between what works on paper
and what works in a human life.

And maybe that’s where quality of life quietly begins – not in what we can prove, but in what we’re finally willing to notice.

In a world where change is happening so fast it feels impossible to catch up, many of us are left wondering: How do we keep up, and where do we truly belong?

At the Business Hippie Club, we believe the answer lies in going back to basics, getting real with ourselves.

Authenticity isn’t just a nice word for Instagram captions; it’s the foundation for living a life that matters, both to you and to the people around you. It’s about finding your true rhythm and letting it flow outward to inspire and create meaningful change. (our inside out principle)

Let’s dive into how embracing your authentic self can help you not only find your place in society but also transform it. Here’s the deal: this is all about you being you and making it count.

Why being real matters

More and more people are struggling to feel like they truly belong in today’s fast-changing world. Traditional structures like religion, long a source of belonging, are fading. According to a 2023 Gallup survey, only 39% of people in Western countries report actively participating in any form of organized religion. That’s a big drop compared to 20 years ago. Combine that with the loneliness fueled by constant screen time and online interactions, and you’ve got a recipe for feeling lost.

The good news

But here’s the good news: when old systems crumble, we get to create something new. This is your chance to fill that void with something real, something you. When you focus on what truly matters to you, you move beyond just getting by – you actively create a world where genuine connections thrive.

Start within, change the world

The Business Hippie Way is simple: start within. When you align your inner values with what you do in the world, everything clicks. Think of it as a mirror, when you reflect authenticity, it comes back to you tenfold. This is how:

1. Get real with yourself Grab a journal or find a quiet spot. Ask yourself: What makes me come alive? What’s one thing I’d fight for, no matter what? These answers are your compass.
2. Live your values It’s not enough to know your values; you’ve got to live them. Start with something manageable. If building connections excites you, try hosting a small meetup with like-minded people. If fairness drives you, take steps to champion it in your workplace – whether through conversations, initiatives, or simply setting an example.
3. Create a ripple effect Remember: your authenticity inspires others. When you’re unapologetically yourself, you give others permission to do the same. That’s how movements start – one bold action at a time.

Find your people, make your space

Let’s get one thing straight: finding your place doesn’t mean squeezing into some predefined box. It’s about creating a space where you can show up fully. Here’s how:

1. Find your tribe Look for people who get you. Whether it’s a local activist group, a co-working space, or even an online forum, connection starts when you share your truth.
2. Lead by example Don’t see your kind of space? Create it. Organize a workshop, host a discussion, or even throw a dinner party with purpose-driven conversations. Your vibe will attract your tribe.
3. Step back and zoom-out How does your personal journey connect to what’s happening in the world? Maybe your passion for sustainability fits into a global shift toward green economies, or your storytelling skills can help rebuild social trust.

Why authenticity resonates

Think about the people who’ve inspired you the most. Odds are, they weren’t trying to be anyone else. That’s the magic of authenticity. It’s not perfect, it’s raw, honest, and sometimes a little messy. But it’s real, and that’s what people connect with.

When you live authentically, you create ripples that extend beyond yourself. You’re not just improving your life; you’re shaping a world where others feel empowered to do the same. That’s how communities grow. That’s how societies evolve.

Let’s get real together

Here’s the deal: the journey to authenticity isn’t always easy, but it’s worth it. It starts with small steps; a conversation, a bold decision, or even just showing up as yourself in a world that’s constantly telling you to be something or someone else.

Rethink, redesign and rebuild

At the Business Hippie Club, we’re here to walk this path with you. Together, we can rethink, redesign, and rebuild not only (y)our ideal world but also the communities and systems we’re part of. Because when you align who you are with what you do, the world becomes a better place – as simple as that.

Ready to find your place and make an impact? Let’s start the journey – the Business Hippie way and let’s talk!

We all chase work-life balance, believing if we just worked faster or scheduled smarter, we’d finally find harmony. But here’s the truth: balance isn’t about managing time – it’s about aligning your energy with your values.

When we focus on energy, we unlock a deeper level of fulfillment. As a leader, this isn’t just a personal practice; it’s the foundation of conscious leadership, which is about creating environments where everyone thrives – not just survives.

Why balance feels so hard today

In a world that glorifies “the grind,” balance often feels like a pipe dream. Leaders face constant demands, juggling business growth, team management, and personal lives. It’s no wonder 76% of professionals report feeling burnt out at least sometimes (Gallup, 2023).

But here’s the twist: it’s not just about workloads. It’s about whether those workloads align with your core values. When you spend time on things that feel meaningless or misaligned, it drains your energy faster than any 12-hour day.

Conscious leaders understand this. They don’t just chase goals – they question whether those goals resonate with their principles.

How energy and values lead the way

Let’s rethink balance, not as a rigid 50/50 split between work and life, but as a flowing rhythm where your energy and values guide your actions.

Here’s how to bring this idea to life:

1. Lead with your values
   Start by identifying what truly matters to you. Is it creativity? Connection? Impact? Conscious leaders use their values as a compass, making decisions that feel right – not just strategic.
   • Example: A leader whose value is “growth through collaboration” might prioritize mentoring a team member over attending a networking event.
2. Design work around energy peaks
   Everyone has natural highs and lows. Maybe you’re sharpest in the morning or full of ideas after a workout. Use this rhythm to tackle tasks that align with your values.
   • Aligning your energy to high-priority, values-driven tasks doesn’t just boost productivity—it fuels purpose.
3. Set intentional boundaries
   Leadership is about serving others, but that doesn’t mean sacrificing yourself. Conscious leaders know that protecting their energy (and teaching their teams to do the same) is a powerful way to lead.
   • Think of boundaries not as walls, but as bridges between what’s essential and what’s unnecessary.

The power of alignment

As leaders, we’re more than task managers; we’re culture creators. If we model energy management and values alignment, our teams will follow suit.

For example:

• When you honor your downtime, your team feels empowered to do the same.
• When you bring purpose into meetings – asking “How does this align with what we believe?”- you foster deeper engagement and motivation.

A 2023 study by McKinsey found that teams led by values-driven leaders were 30% more likely to feel engaged and 50% less likely to report burnout. When people see that their work aligns with a bigger “why,” it transforms how they show up.

What happens when we get it right?

Imagine an organization where:

• Decisions are made with purpose, not just urgency.
• Team members feel energized and valued because they’re working toward something meaningful.
• Leaders are modeling not just success, but sustainability.

This isn’t just about feeling good – it’s about thriving in a way that drives innovation, creativity, and long-term success.

Your next step

To start shifting from hustle to harmony, ask yourself:

1. What drains my energy the most?
2. What tasks or projects align most closely with my core values?
3. How can I, as a leader, create a culture where energy management is as important as hitting targets?

When you focus on energy and values, balance stops feeling like a juggling act and starts feeling like a natural flow. And as a conscious leader, that flow is what empowers you – and your team – to thrive.

Peace, Love & Happiness!

Hans van de Rakt

Business Hippie Club

http://www.businesshippie.club

As traditional religious structures weaken, particularly in Western societies, people are increasingly searching for new systems of belief and identity. This trend is accelerating the phenomenon of “societal refugees” those who feel disconnected from societal norms, including religious institutions, work systems, and education. (See our previous article) The erosion of these traditional anchors, along with increasing secularism, has left a growing number of people without a clear framework for understanding their place in the world.

Decline of religion

Recent data from the Pew Research Center shows that as of 2023, 28% of U.S. adults identify as religiously unaffiliated—often referred to as “nones” (atheist, agnostic, or nothing in particular). This figure has remained relatively stable in the past few years after years of steady growth, peaking at 31% in 2022. In comparison, only 16% of U.S. adults identified as unaffiliated in 2007 This trend is mirrored in Europe, where secularization is even more widespread, particularly in countries like the UK, France, and Scandinavia.

Search for new meaning

While organized religion traditionally provided community, moral guidance, and a sense of purpose, many individuals today seek alternative frameworks for meaning. This shift reflects a larger dissatisfaction with rigid structures and doctrines, leading people to explore spiritual but not religious (SBNR) approaches, emphasizing personal spirituality over institutionalized practices. As religious participation declines, many find themselves searching for purpose and belonging elsewhere, fueling the rise of new social movements focused on personal growth, ethical living, and communal support.

Key reasons behind the decline of religion

Several factors contribute to this phenomenon:

1. Secularization: Growing reliance on science and rationalism reduces the need for religious explanations.
2. Disillusionment with Institutions: Scandals and rigid dogma have led to widespread distrust of religious authorities.
3. Individualism: People are shifting toward personal spiritual practices, crafting their own belief systems outside of organized religion.
4. Cultural Diversity: Globalization exposes people to a variety of belief systems, encouraging questioning of traditional religious claims.

The rise of societal refugees

The concept of societal refugees aligns with this trend. Individuals who feel displaced from traditional societal structures often seek new forms of community and meaning.

For many societal refugees, work no longer satisfies their deeper needs for connection and purpose. As businesses become increasingly disconnected from ethical and sustainable practices, people are looking for alternative lifestyles that emphasize well-being, community, and social impact, core principles that align with the values of conscious living. See our article

Consequences of the decline of religion

As religious affiliation declines, the implications for society are profound:

1. Search for Alternative Frameworks: Without the moral and social structure provided by religion, individuals turn to movements like conscious living, environmentalism, and ethical consumerism for guidance.
2. Increased Focus on Personal Well-Being: As traditional religious beliefs wane, secular alternatives like mindfulness, meditation, and wellness practices fill the void, offering individuals spiritual experiences without religious structures.
3. Loss of Traditional Community Structures: With the decline of religious institutions, which often serve as community hubs, there is a fragmentation of community life. People are now seeking alternative ways to build relationships and find support, often through social movements or lifestyle practices.
4. New Ethical and Moral Frameworks: As society shifts away from religious foundations, secular ethics, and humanism take precedence, influencing social and moral decisions. Issues such as environmental sustainability and social justice become focal points for personal identity and community engagement.

This shift presents opportunities for new movements and frameworks to offer individuals purpose, community, and guidance in a world where traditional anchors are eroding.

Data on the rise of conscious lifestyles

The decline in religious affiliation correlates with the rise of movements focused on conscious living, sustainability, and ethical business practices. A study by Deloitte found that 80% of Millennials believe that businesses should have a clear purpose, while 64% of global consumers prefer to support companies that demonstrate social responsibility. This shift in consumer behavior mirrors the desire for more holistic, value-driven lifestyles that provide both financial stability and ethical alignment.

The role of conscious living in the post-religious era

With religion no longer the dominant force shaping morality and community, people are increasingly turning to alternative systems that integrate personal well-being, social impact, and environmental stewardship. This growing desire for purpose-driven lives is evident in the surge of interest in movements like minimalism, mindfulness, and sustainability, all of which provide a sense of control, ethical alignment, and fulfillment that religion once offered.

In this context, the Business Hippie Way represents a potential lifestyle framework that aligns with the conscious living movement. By integrating personal values with professional lives, and emphasizing community, creativity, and conscious leadership, (see our blogposts) it helps individuals find new meaning in a world where traditional religious and social structures are faltering. The Business Hippie Way provides a path for individuals seeking purpose, alignment with their values, and a lifestyle that embraces both ethical business practices and personal well-being.

Peace, Love & Happiness!

Link to the article: the rise of societal refugees

In a world that moves faster than ever, it’s easy to get swept up in the current, pursuing goals, following trends, and chasing after what others define as success. But when we pause and look within, what we often find is that a meaningful life is rooted in something much deeper: our values. These values, our deeply held beliefs, are what guide us through the noise, helping us make choices that feel true to who we are.

I’ve come to realize that living according to our values is the foundation of conscious living. It’s about being aware of the impact of our actions, staying aligned with our principles, and creating a life that reflects our purpose. Let’s explore how values can shape our lives in ways that bring us clarity, fulfillment, and connection.

What values mean to me

For me, values are more than just abstract ideas. They are the personal compass that points me in the right direction, especially when life feels overwhelming. Values like integrity, compassion, and transparency guide not only my decisions but also how I interact with others and the world around me.

How about you?

Think about the moments in your life that made you feel truly fulfilled or at peace. Chances are, those moments were aligned with your values. Maybe it was helping a friend in need, standing up for something you believe in, or pushing yourself to grow in ways you didn’t think were possible. In those moments, your actions reflected the core of who you are.

Values and conscious living

Conscious living, a lifestyle topic at the Business Hippie Club, is all about being present, aware, and intentional. It’s about living in a way that aligns with your deepest beliefs and creating a positive ripple effect around you. Here’s how I’ve found values play a key role in living consciously:

– Values guide our decisions

Life presents us with countless choices every day, from the big decisions like career paths to the smaller ones like how we spend our time. When we’re clear on our values, it’s easier to make decisions that feel right. For instance, if you value sustainability, you might choose to live in a way that reduces your environmental footprint—whether that’s through the products you buy or the way you travel.

I’ve learned that when my decisions are aligned with my values, I feel more confident and at peace, knowing that I’m staying true to myself.

– Values shape our relationships

Our values influence how we treat others and the kind of relationships we form. When we live with compassion and authenticity, we naturally attract people who share similar beliefs. This builds deeper, more meaningful connections. I’ve found that some of the strongest relationships in my life are those where we’ve bonded over shared values like trust, empathy, or growth.

Living in alignment with my values has helped me build relationships that feel genuine and supportive, both personally and professionally.

– Values drive personal growth

Conscious living encourages self-reflection. By regularly assessing whether we’re living in line with our values, we create opportunities for growth. I’ve found that when I stray from my values, it serves as a reminder to re-center myself. The process of realignment often leads to valuable lessons and deeper self-awareness.

Growth, for me, is a constant journey, and values are my guideposts along the way.

– Values help us create a positive impact

One of the most fulfilling aspects of living consciously is knowing that your actions can make a difference. When we live by values like equality, kindness, or justice, we naturally contribute to a better world. Whether it’s through small, everyday actions or larger contributions, our values become a force for good in the world around us.

Personally, I’ve found joy in knowing that even small actions—like supporting a cause I care about or helping a friend—can create a ripple effect.

Choosing and living your values

Choosing your values is an ongoing process. Sometimes it requires looking within and asking, “What truly matters to me?” Over the years, I’ve come to realize that some of the values I hold dear today weren’t always front of mind. Experiences, challenges, and personal growth have reshaped how I see the world and what I prioritize.

Here are a few steps that helped me consciously choose and live by my values:

• Reflect on meaningful moments: Think about times when you felt fulfilled or proud of yourself. What values were present in those moments?
• Look at the people you admire: Who inspires you? What values do they embody that you resonate with?
• Assess your current life: Are there areas where your actions feel disconnected from your values? What can you change to realign?

Once you’ve identified your values, the key is to actively live them. I remind myself every day that it’s not enough to just know my values—I need to embody them in my actions.

Bringing values into daily life

Living by your values is an ongoing practice. Here are a few ways I try to bring my values into daily (conscious) life:

1. Make conscious choices: Whether big or small, I try to ensure my decisions reflect what I care about—whether it’s choosing to spend time with family or pursuing a project that aligns with my purpose.
2. Create a space for reflection: Regularly checking in with myself helps me stay connected to my values. I often journal or meditate on whether my actions are aligned with my beliefs.
3. Surround yourself with like-minded people: I’ve found that being part of a community of people who share my values helps me stay focused and inspired.
4. Practice self-compassion: I’m not perfect, and sometimes I stray from my values. But I’ve learned to approach those moments with compassion, knowing that it’s all part of the journey.

Living a life aligned with values

At the end of the day, living according to our values is what makes life meaningful. It’s not always easy, but it’s incredibly rewarding. Values help us navigate challenges, foster deeper connections, and create a sense of purpose. They allow us to live consciously, with integrity and intention.

By choosing and living by our values, we create lives that feel authentic, grounded, and impactful. And ultimately, that’s what makes the journey worthwhile.

create (y)our ideal world!

In today’s busy world, it’s easy to feel like we’re just going through the motions. But I’ve realized that, within all the chaos, there’s a chance for us to create real change, starting with how we live our daily lives. That change begins with conscious living.

Conscious living means aligning our daily choices with the values we find important. It’s about being intentional with how we consume, treat others, and contribute to society, and being aware of our footprint on the planet.

At the Business Hippie Club, we see conscious living as a ripple effect, when more individuals adopt this mindset, the collective impact can reshape communities, industries, and the environment. Through mindful choices, we’re not just transforming ourselves; we’re catalyzing real, lasting change in the world.

It starts with awareness

For me, conscious living began with simply paying attention. I started to notice how my actions, big and small, affected the world around me. Every choice, from what I buy to how I treat others, has an impact. If more of us lived with this kind of awareness, we would create a world that’s kinder, more sustainable, and fairer for everyone.

Working together instead of alone

Conscious living shows us how connected we all are. Once we understand that, we stop competing and start helping each other. Whether in business or in our communities, working together makes us stronger. That’s what we do at the Business Hippie Club, we bring people together to make a bigger impact.

Empathy drives change

Empathy, truly understanding and caring about others, is key to conscious living. It makes us want to help those in need and protect the planet. It’s more than just being kind; it’s about making choices that show we care. This leads to business decisions that prioritize people and the planet, initiatives like fair-trade partnerships, social housing projects, and creating communities that are inclusive and compassionate.

Leading by example

I’ve found that the best way to inspire change is by living it. When you lead by example, people take notice and want to do the same and take action. Whether at work, home, or in your community, living consciously creates a ripple effect that inspires others to follow suit.

At the Business Hippie Club, we embody this by leading with action through projects like the Social Housing Boat and the Conscious Travel Collective. These initiatives show how living consciously can drive real solutions to social challenges and unite people with shared values.

Building systems that support change

We can’t do it alone. For conscious living to really make a difference, we need systems that support it, like ethical businesses, fair policies, and communities that lift each other up.

At the Business Hippie Club, we work to create these kinds of systems by connecting purpose-driven entrepreneurs, advocating for conscious leadership, and fostering partnerships that solve social and environmental challenges. This way, we’re not just talking about change, we’re building the structures that make lasting transformation possible.

The power of small actions

Every small action we take adds up. When more of us live consciously, we create a ripple effect that spreads across society. Imagine a world where businesses care about the planet, communities solve problems together, and people make choices that are good for everyone. That’s the world we’re working toward.

Let’s make this change together

Conscious living may start with you, but when we do it together, we can change the world. By living with awareness, empathy, and purpose, we can create a better future for everyone. Join us at the Business Hippie Club, and let’s walk this path toward collective transformation together.

create (y)our ideal world!

The Power of Keeping It Real

In your business-life you’re navigating a dynamic landscape where innovation, resilience, and adaptability are essential. But there’s another crucial ingredient that often gets overlooked: authenticity. Let’s delve into why authenticity matters and how it can shape your entrepreneurial journey.

Love What You Do

Authenticity begins with passion. When you genuinely love what you do, it shines through in every aspect of your business. Consider Oprah Winfrey’s journey: from being a fired evening news reporter to becoming a talk show host, her authenticity became her greatest asset. She connected with her audience because she was real, relatable, and passionate about her work.

Action Point: Reflect on your passion. What problem are you solving? How does it resonate with you personally? When you’re authentically invested, you’ll create lasting connections with investors, suppliers, and customers.

Hire Authentic People

Your team is the lifeblood of your business. Authentic people go beyond fulfilling job descriptions. They embody your brand, share your vision, and contribute wholeheartedly. When hiring, prioritize passion over experience. Seek individuals who genuinely believe in your mission.

Action Point: During interviews, assess not only skills but also alignment with your brand values. Surround yourself with authentic team members, and your business will thrive.

Vulnerability as Strength

Being authentic means revealing your flaws alongside your strengths. It’s tempting to project an image of total competence, but vulnerability fosters trust. Share your challenges, setbacks, and growth moments. Authentic leaders inspire loyalty and resilience.

Action Point: In your communications, be transparent about both successes and struggles. Show that you’re human and watch how your team and stakeholders respond.

Consistency Matters

Authenticity isn’t a one-time act; it’s a commitment. Consistently align your actions with your values. Whether it’s customer interactions, product development, or decision-making, let authenticity guide you. People appreciate authenticity because it’s reliable.

Action Point: Create a brand manifesto that outlines your core values. Refer to it often and ensure your business practices reflect those principles.

Listen and Adapt

Authenticity involves active listening. Understand your customers’ needs, desires, and pain points. Adapt your offerings based on their feedback. Authentic entrepreneurs don’t impose; they collaborate.

Action Point: Set up regular feedback loops. Engage with your audience through surveys, social media, or direct conversations. Show that you value their input.

Celebrate Uniqueness

Embrace what makes you different. Your quirks, experiences, and individuality contribute to your authenticity. Don’t conform to stereotypes; stand out authentically.

Action Point: Highlight your unique story. Share personal anecdotes, lessons learned, and pivotal moments. Authenticity attracts like-minded individuals who appreciate your genuine voice.

Authenticity isn’t a buzzword; it’s the bedrock of successful entrepreneurship. Be true to yourself, your purpose, and your audience.

create (y)our ideal world!

In the busy world of entrepreneurship, making decisions is super important. But sometimes, it can feel like a lot of pressure. Whether you’re starting a new business or running an existing one, dealing with all the choices can be tough. However, learning to handle decision-making pressure is a big part of being a successful entrepreneur in today’s world.

Understanding the Pressure

Firstly, it’s essential to know that feeling pressure about decisions is normal. As an entrepreneur, you’re always facing new challenges and tough choices. Instead of seeing pressure as a bad thing, think of it as a chance to show your skills and grow your business.

Figuring Out Where It Comes From

To deal with decision-making pressure, it helps to know why you’re feeling it:

1. Scared of Making Mistakes: Being afraid of making the wrong choice is totally normal.
2. Short on Time: Time is precious in business, and you often need to make decisions fast.
3. Other People’s Expectations: You might feel pressure from investors, customers, or your team.
4. Lots of Choices: Decisions are rarely simple, and you might have to juggle a bunch of factors at once.

Understanding why you’re feeling pressure can help you handle it better.

How to Deal with It

1. Have a Plan: Make a clear plan for making decisions. Think about what you want to achieve and what might go wrong.
2. Ask for Help: Don’t try to do everything alone. Talk to people you trust for advice and support.
3. It’s Okay to Mess Up: Remember, not every decision will be perfect. Learn from your mistakes and move forward.
4. Take Care of Yourself: It’s important to take breaks and look after your well-being. Try mindfulness or relaxation techniques to stay calm.
5. Learn from Experience: Think about past decisions and what you learned from them. It can help you make better choices in the future.

Feeling pressure about decisions is part of being an entrepreneur, but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. By understanding where the pressure comes from and using these tips, you can handle tough decisions with more confidence. Being able to make smart choices is key to succeeding in business today.

create (y)our ideal world!