Walpole: In a world where we’re always available, how do you separate your personal time from your work time?
Ryan Palmer: I think when you’ve founded something, it becomes a part of your identity – both personally and professionally – so separation really becomes more about balancing and prioritising, rather than totally separating those aspects. I have become very good at recognising what is actually urgent and what can wait. It is also important to understand that time away from work can be an extremely effective and enjoyable way to re-energise and maximise your impact across all facets of your life, including at work.
What’s one thing you do after the workday to help you unwind?
I love getting into a good short series. I’ve just finished Griselda on Netflix.
What activity do you do in your time away from the office that helps you relax and recentre after a stressful week?
I absolutely love cooking for people – it's my therapy. I love the fact that it’s got a start, a middle and an end, and I find the whole process, from the shopping to the eating, so enjoyable. It is one of my favourite ways to express creativity. For some it’s writing, drawing or painting. But for me, it’s cooking.
What’s something you’ve read, listened to, or seen in your spare time that’s helped you at work?
I recently read Shoe Dog, the memoir of Nike Founder, Phil Knight. It’s such a fascinating and inspiring journey full of highs, lows, lessons and inspiration.
After home and the office, where’s your favourite ‘third space’?
Definitely a nice independent coffee shop. I’m a bit of a coffee snob and find a lively and light environment really conducive to tackling particularly creative or even more mundane tasks.
On Sunday night, how do you prepare yourself for the week ahead?
I like to make a priority ‘to do’ list for the week ahead. If I were to get nothing more than those tasks done in the following week, I’m happy. Anything more than that is a bonus.
Best reason you've had to turn your out of office on recently?
At 11am on New Year's Day I booked a flight to Marrakech departing at 4pm and for four sunshine-filled days, I didn’t open my laptop at all! I’ve decided that I am definitely going to make this week-long break at New Year a permanent fixture in my life. I came back so refreshed, re-energised and re-inspired. It offered much-needed headspace to start the year ahead.
Your go-to out of office outfit: Jeans and a T-shirt or long-sleeve jumper.
Your happy place anywhere in the world: On a mountain or a beach.
Your favourite bar or restaurant: I have quite a few but I’ll go with my local pub, Lore of the Land in Fitzrovia, London. There, I’ll usually take a glass of red.
Something cultural you booked recently that you'd recommend: I’ve recently booked a trip to Freetown in Sierra Leone. I think it’s important to explore and have adventures.
Something you've listened to or read recently that you'd recommend: Shoe Dog by Phil Knight. An incredible and inspiring story, whether you’re an entrepreneur or not.
A hobby you'd like to cultivate: Cooking.
A luxury that’s actually a necessity: This would have to be my chef’s knife.
Best luxury under £25: My London Sock Company socks – genuinely!
