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Ryan Poles, the General Manager of the Chicago Bears, has recently opened up about the detrimental effects of his extreme work habits during his tenure with the team.
Reflecting on his beginning with the team, Poles has expressed regret for taking his dedication to the extreme by resorting to sleeping in his office at Halas Hall.
Poles, who assumed the role in 2022, revealed that his decision to sleep in his office was driven by an unwavering commitment to maximizing preparation time for the highly anticipated 2022 NFL draft.
However, upon further reflection, Poles now acknowledges that his extreme approach was not only unsustainable but also detrimental to his overall well-being.
“That was not healthy doing that last year,” Poles admitted in a conversation with ESPN’s Courtney Cronin. “I don’t ever want to go through that again.”
The NFL is renowned for its demanding and highly competitive nature, with general managers and coaches often subjecting themselves to arduous work schedules in pursuit of victory.
This culture of relentless dedication and the belief that sacrificing personal health may provide a competitive advantage is not uncommon in the league. However, Poles’ candid admission sheds light on the potential negative consequences of such practices.
While Poles acknowledges that his intense work ethic was initially deemed necessary to fulfill his responsibilities effectively, he now emphasizes the need for a more balanced approach.
The recognition that a healthier work-life balance is vital for long-term success and personal well-being is a crucial step in his professional growth.
The willingness of Ryan Poles to publicly acknowledge the negative consequences of his extreme work habits presents an opportunity for reflection and growth within the NFL.
By encouraging healthier work practices and fostering a culture that values work-life balance, the league can enhance the overall well-being and longevity of its personnel.