Interview with Pioneera: Take 5 with Lana Weal

Take 5 with Pioneera is a series of micro interviews with key business leaders on wellness, leadership, productivity and workplace culture.

This week we’re taking 5 with Lana Weal, Marketing Consultant at Market Mindfully.

Lana is a storyteller on a mission to support others making the world a better place through doing good business. With a communications career that spans some of Australia’s most well known brands, local businesses and early-stage startups, Lana enjoys supporting purpose-driven entrepreneurs, to amplify their impact and change the world through Market Mindfully and the upcoming podcast In Kind Company. 

EXCERPT FROM THE INTERVIEW:

“How do you stay focused and maintain a positive mindset when things get crazy busy?”

Lana says:

Like many in the startup industry, I love my work and I’ve got some workaholic tendencies. Often when I’m getting overwhelmed or I’m not focused, taking a break and stepping away from screens helps to refresh my mindset. 

During lockdown in Melbourne, I’ve had productivity guilt where I wished I had achieved more or was further along. So to help my mindset, I’ve been more dedicated to practicing gratitude daily and I’ve looked back on my career and work so far to appreciate what I have achieved. It’s easy to forget all that’s happened when you’re looking forward to doing even more!
Lana Says:

For years I worked with a never-ending to-do list and a set amount of time spent at my computer. When I started Market Mindfully and working for myself, I knew I had to change.  When I create more structure to my day, I can be more productive as I’m working on one thing at a time, and I feel more refreshed afterwards as I have a sense of achievement and clear end to tasks.

Now I try to start every work week with three important priorities that will “move the needle” so I have clear focus. Then everyday I use time-blocking to get certain tasks done and I’m aware of how much time and energy I spend on each task. “