Hooked on Hobbies: How This Exec Stays Sharp (and Lands Big Fish!)
Ever feel like your brain is a hamster on a never-ending wheel? You know, that constant hum of work, deadlines, emails, and the pressure to be "on" 24/7? We all get caught in the grind, dreaming of a magical "escape button" to hit when things get too much.
Well, I stumbled upon a story that might just be your stress-relief siren song. Meet Skip La Bella. He's a big deal – Vice President of Strategic Growth at Closets by Design. Sounds like a demanding job where every detail counts, right? Absolutely! But here's the kicker: Skip isn't just building amazing closets; he's also reeling in some serious success (and some seriously huge fish!).
For Skip, fishing isn't just a pastime; it's his superpower, his ultimate "escape valve." Since he was a little kid in Ohio, he's been hooked on the thrill of the catch. Now, in sunny Florida, he's out on his 30-foot Pursuit, deep-dropping for snapper, grouper, and amberjack. Talk about a refreshing break from spreadsheets and strategy meetings!
And here's where it gets really interesting: Skip sees fishing as a masterclass in business. Think about it: patience, strategy, adapting to changing conditions, knowing when to wait and when to strike. It's all there, playing out on the open water, just like in the boardroom. That time away, focused entirely on something else, sharpens his mind and helps him return to work with fresh eyes and renewed energy. He even calls it his "sanity"!
But here's the real takeaway for all of us: it's not about what your hobby is, it's about having one. Whether you're painting, hiking, playing an instrument, mastering a new recipe, or, like Skip, chasing the biggest catch – having something that pulls you away from the daily grind is absolutely crucial.
It recharges your batteries, gives you perspective, and lets your brain wander (in a good way!). It's the ultimate burnout prevention strategy. Plus, who doesn't need a little "sanity" and a reminder that there's more to life than work? Even his wife, kids, and grandkids get in on the action, making it a fantastic family affair.
So, next time you're feeling overwhelmed, don't just push harder. Ask yourself: What's my fishing trip? What's my escape? Go find it, dive in, and watch how it makes you sharper, happier, and even more successful when you return to your desk. Your brain (and your business) will thank you!
Original article: https://www.businessobserverfl.com/news/2026/jan/08/closet-design-firm-exec-fishing/