Meet Andy Ramirez | Motivator & Municipal Deputy Director

We had the good fortune of connecting with Andy Ramirez and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Andy, have there been any changes in how you think about work-life balance?
Are you always on the go? Working on the next project while trying to engage on yet another conference call?

During a long commute back home, analytical thinkers often ask, “What did I actually accomplish today?” That’s because super-busy lifestyles are exhausting. Just ask the hamster who runs at full speed every day on that tiny wheel. He might be giving it his all, but at the end of the day, what victory and fulfillment did he achieve besides tiredness?

For you high-performing, data-driven, results-oriented professionals, the truth is that you can juggle more and run faster than most. You thrive on performance, but your body is now shouting that it’s time to slow down, get refreshed, and recalibrate- or else something will burn out.

Writing for Forbes, Heather Cherry says, “The human body is built to thrive on a series of short sprints. This is why taking a break—even only for a few minutes—can offer you the refresh you need to persevere through your day.”¹ In other words, determined breaks promote physical and mental power surges, creativity, and increased productivity. Other benefits include less stress build-up, a reduction in mood swings, and healthier relationships.

Determined rest is not laziness. Rather, it is silent nourishment for the soul, body, and mind. Thousands of years ago, the Psalmist wrote, “My soul, wait silently for God alone, for my expectation is from Him”.² Shutting down in quietness is a sacred time to refill the gas tank of your inner being as the Creator restores His masterpiece. The more we remember this universal law, the greater will be the output we see at work and at home. (Remember, those at home need you most.)

Here are a few practical steps to pursue a determined rest:

1. Enjoy a true 15 minute break

Throw a cool towel over your eyes and think of one person or one thing you ought to be grateful for.

2. Stretch & Exercise

This will focus the mind and regulate both neurotransmitters and other hormones.

3. Practice Sleep Hygiene

Follow a nightly routine and keep it consistent. Open the Psalms and Proverbs for wisdom and strength. People who lived long ago, documented truths that made them better leaders and better friends. Finally, unplug from electronics 30-60 minutes before bedtime, and dim your lights to allow your body’s natural melatonin production to collaborate with you. These steps along with a grateful heart will give you the power and endurance to win the race.

References:

Psalm 62:5 https://biblehub.com/psalms/62-5.htm
https://www.forbes.com/sites/womensmedia/2021/01/15/the-benefits-of-resting-and-how-to-unplug-in-a-busy-world/?sh=2af9600e2133

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am an experienced leader, skilled with cultivating and empowering cohesive teams to accomplish major projects. I am known for excellent interagency collaboration, sound budget development, contract management, and energy initiatives. As a deputy director for a local municipal agency, I have been able to accelerate stagnant major capital improvement projects and harness the hidden talents of my team.

The path to success is often laden by those who desire to hinder the success of others. As a young man, my dad would remind me how successful people do not stop give up on their goal but rather preserve towards it. Along with my mom, I was taught to be kind to others and become a quick learner of people and processes.

Professionally, my career blossomed when a gentleman by the name of Mike Emberton took the time to open a door for a young persistent manager. He took the time to celebrate my go-getter spirit, inquisitive mind, and leveraged it to think more strategically. This formula proved to create long lasting solutions that have saved millions of dollars and increased economic opportunities for many.

As Mike was eyeing retirement, I learned that his legacy was meant to surpass his impact. He desired for others to blossom in their own talents. In deed, leadership does not glory in its own greatness; it inspires the best in others.

According to Justin Rizzo, “We were meant to be channels for the Lord to flow through, not pools of standing water…Never stop replicating yourself and sowing into others. Seek to have your ceiling be the floor of those you’re leading and try your absolute best to make other people better than yourself.”
Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
When it comes to great food, Los Angeles is filled great dining. Growing up, I went to La Parrilla Restaurant in East Los Angeles. There is something really special about this place from it’s hand made tortillas to musicians that professionally play for pay. The music was so good, I took a trio with me to regain the heart of my first love in South Gate. Yes, I still think of her. The experience of parking in the back and entering through the kitchen to say hi to the cooks was really neat. Once you get seated at a decorated booth, a fresh bowl of chips and 2 types of salsa are ready to enjoy. No matter what holiday it may be, the restaurant is bursting with color, piñatas, and Mexican art.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I would like to thank my parents Armando and Nilda Ramirez for showing me that perseverance is vital for long term success. For those desiring to grow in their leadership skills, I highly encourage studying King Solomon’s proverbs. His short one liners are filled with truth and strategies to enhance your personal life and professional career.

Website: andyramirez.org

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