Change, he says, starts from within by identifying these stressors, then setting healthy boundaries and regularly taking self-inventory. “Without making them feel guilty, we let CISOs know that we understand their struggle and that drinking away their stress doesn’t work, but it’s a false solution, a betrayal of their last state. We show them other ways, how they can be happier and more happy at work and in their lives. And our motto is that we will not let them fail.”
Non-alcoholic networking events can be very productive
Now 24 years sober and seeing how alcohol plays a big role in CISO gatherings and big events, marketing consultant Jennifer VanAntwerp started Sober in Cyber last year. He now organizes informal networking events for CISOs and security professionals at the RSA Conference, Black Hat, and other large and small gatherings. He realized that discussion and sharing of knowledge is more productive and beneficial for the participants when there is no alcohol – and no hangover.
“I share that the best way to deal with stress is to write your own health, lifestyle, and work-life balance. And if people are struggling with alcohol, I tell them they don’t have to wait until dry January is over, they can set small goals. If you drink every day, give yourself two or three weeks without drinking to see how you feel. Within a week, people feel better because alcohol relaxes and often disturbs your sleep,” he said.
Source link