My Best Self: Jon Hawke

How do you define striving to be your “Best Self?”
Striving to be ones “best self” requires a strong commitment to the goal, honest self-reflection, & the ability to give ones self grace.

What are your hobbies? 
One of my many hobbies is cooking. Not to flaunt, but I’m bit of an amateur chef. Growing up, a lot of our family and social events were centered around food. From holiday gatherings to birthday parties, food & celebration just went hand in hand. I was also fortunate enough to spend many of my formative high-school years in the back of a bakery in my hometown. I was always attracted to the calculative process that is cooking & baking, after all isn’t baking just delicious chemistry?

Given the choice of anyone in the world (any time), who would you want as a dinner guest?
Anthony Bourdain at Cabane à Sucre Au Pied De Cochon in Quebec!

Best piece of advice you have received?
Failing is an important part of success.

What do you try and do frequently to focus on mental health/wellness?
There are three key habits I’ve formed over the last 3+ years to help myself focus on mental health & wellness. I spend time each day, multiple times a day to meditate. This helps me clear my mind, refocus or even wind down at the end of a busy day. I also make sure I spend a portion of my day being physically active, from heading out for a run on my lunch-hour to hitting the beach & playing some volleyball! Finally, something a little less exerting, tending to my garden/house plants.I seem to go into “Zen mode” when I’m out in the garden. There is also something incredibly rewarding when you plate a nice dinner that features your homegrown produce!