From Aspirational Success To Attempted Suicide

In this episode Mat and his guest, Simon Stephen talk about how the way in which we work has changed forever. From his side, Simon previously spent 25 years in the corporate world working for some of the biggest names in the industry. 

On the face of it, he was very successful and had the kind of life most would dream of - earning huge amounts of money, big houses, cars, holidays, a beautiful wife, and all the trappings of a life revolving around materialism and corporate reward.

But this kind of increasing demand on employees to perform at the highest levels for prolonged periods is far in excess of what would be deemed healthy by medical professionals. And as Simon learned first hand, this trend has led to an inevitable increase in work-related stress, physical and mental exhaustion, emotional breakdown, and tragically, suicide.

Simon shares how he was suffering in silence underneath a facade of ’success’ - addicted to prescription painkillers, drinking heavily, behaving callously and selfishly towards family, friends, and colleagues, hurting other people who didn't deserve it, and on a path of self-destruction that led to him forcing open a hotel window in London and attempting to take his own life.

Thankfully, that moment changed his life trajectory, and whilst shame played its part in giving him the willpower to take responsibility for previous wrongs, he realised that the sincerest apology he could give is to exhibit a consistent change of behaviour and make kindness his default.

He loves talking about the massive, fundamental changes he has made to his life to help him get out of his suicidal state. Moving overseas to a remote hill farm in Portugal, starting a winery, growing Olives, getting fit and healthy, creating his well-being brand, and moving into a career dedicated to helping others.

His 'brand' is called Intorcida (Intorcida: IN - TOR - SEE - DA, Verb [slang]: To Un-Twist yourself) which provides services geared towards helping people recognise, understand, and counter the stresses of corporate life.

On The Unleashing Potential Podcast, we interview progressive individuals who are unleashing their potential on the world around them. We take a deep dive into how they got to where they are, what lessons they have learned along the way, and how their experiences can impact us all.

This is a candid, ‘no holds barred’ deep dive into a person's darkest moment and bouncing beyond to lead a life of gratitude and service. Simon needs no sympathy, nor does he ask for it. He has sought forgiveness from those around him during his difficult years and is now on a path of real meaning and, some would say, real success.

So chuck in your earbuds and, if you like what you hear, remember to share the love by sending the link to someone you think would also benefit from hearing this.