#ShowYourEnergy with Nunzio Guadagno: when sport increases brainpower!

19/09/2017

News

19As the official partner of the Paris 2024 bid, we’re tuned into the sporting spirit! Every week, discover interviews with Group employees who tell us about their passion for sport.
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Hello Nunzio, what sport do you practice and what role does it play in your life?

I always liked running, but I decided to take it more seriously in 2013 after having an operation. I needed to regain self-confidence and to start believing in my abilities again, so I started running with great enthusiasm. Four years on, I’m still doing it with the same amount of passion! At the moment, I’m preparing for my first half-marathon, which takes place at the end of November. I would say that I’m an “intermediate” runner: I try to run 3 or 4 times a week, but every week, because regularity is the only way to progress and improve my time.

What does this do for you on a day-to-day basis?

Obviously I’m in better physical shape, I feel better about myself on the whole and I’m stronger too. I also feel happier! And running has also improved my ability to concentrate.

That must be very beneficial for your work!

Yes, I tackle the daily challenges of my work with more concentration and precision than before. I feel that my brain works better and I’m more open to new ideas and approaches.

Which sporting values do you try to uphold at work?

Although running is an individual sport, I try to promote team spirit, which lies at the heart of sport. During one of my first 10km races, I remember helping a runner who was having difficulty regaining her motivation. I said, “You can do it! Please, run!” And in the end she finished the race. She came to see me and thanked me, and I’ll never forget the look of joy on her face! At work, I think it’s also important to keep on setting goals and never deviate from your path in order to achieve them. And finally, I think loyalty is very important too, whatever the circumstances.

If you were…

A source of energy: the sun, for its power, its beauty and the energy that it supplies to us all for free

Someone famous: The Dalai Lama, for his peaceful strength

An innovation: Wi-Fi, which allows us to connect without a physical link. It’s a very important innovation, particularly for developing countries

A hashtag: #LiveEveryMomentOfYourLife