Walpole: In a world where we’re always available, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?
Leo Turner: Honestly, I don’t think I separate them. Having your own business – and a cross-generational family business at that – it’s 24/7! I’ve had an awareness of Downey as an entity all my life, so it’s just been a constant living, breathing thing in the background. My brain is always going when looking for inspiration from the wider world and seeing textures, patterns, or colour combinations that we could apply to print and special processes. Often the best ideas come from when I’m not thinking about anything work related.
What’s one thing you do after the work day to help you unwind?
As soon as I step through the front door, I’m in ‘dad mode’ for my three girls, so there’s an instant change of pace. I’m juggling the after-school club collections, the sports clubs, making dinner and of course the bedtime routine. Once I'm done, though, I will escape to my sanctuary, the gym, three or four times a week which takes the pressure right off and tires me out for a good night’s sleep.
What activity do you do in your time away from the office that helps you relax and recentre after a stressful week?
As mentioned previously, it’s getting into the gym. Just over two years ago I started training for Strongman and have now started to compete at an amateur level. It’s not something I’ve done before, but it really lit a fire inside of me and I’ve found a real passion for the sport. The basic concept of keeping it simple by picking up something heavy has really helped my stress levels and tendency for overthinking.
What’s something you’ve read, listened to or seen in your spare time that’s helped you at work?
There are two books I’ve read that have really helped me personally which has then merged into my working life. The first is Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins and the second is Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babbin.
After home and the office, where’s your favourite third space?
Anywhere outdoors really, next to water or in a forest, in all weathers.
On Sunday night, how do you prepare yourself for the week ahead?
Sunday night is a training night for me, so usually two to two-and-a-half hours picking up objects that weigh a ridiculous amount. I’ll sleep well after that, for sure, and be ready for those Monday morning opportunities!
Best reason you've had to turn your Out of Office on recently?
We officially opened our first office in New York City in May this year, so I’ve been on several trips recently to establish relationships and meet clients. Those flights over have been a great chance for me to catch up on reading and switch off my brain.
