In today’s fast-paced professional world — whether you’re closing multi-million-dollar real estate deals or running a small business — the mental and physical demands are real.
And while we often talk about "working harder," few talk enough about working sharper.
For me, and many of the high performers I meet, the secret lies in this formula:
Balance between sport and work.
Richard Branson (Founder, Virgin Group)
"I seriously doubt that I would have been as successful in business if I hadn’t always placed importance on my health and fitness."
🧠 Why Sport Fuels Business Success
Sport — whether it’s swimming, cycling, running, pickleball, or even a simple morning walk — offers more than just physical fitness.
It helps us:
✅ Clear the mind
✅ Reduce stress
✅ Build discipline
✅ Foster resilience
✅ Maintain energy through long workdays
✅ Sharpen focus for strategic decision-making
In my own real estate practice, I notice this constantly: after an early morning swim or run, I approach my clients’ needs with greater clarity and calm.
A sharp mind delivers sharper results — whether negotiating a luxury listing or advising first-time buyers.
Jeff Bezos (Founder, Amazon)
"I prioritize getting 8 hours of sleep and regular exercise because making a few high-quality decisions each day is more important than making thousands of low-quality ones."
🏞️ Scottsdale: A Paradise for Active Professionals
One of the reasons I love living and working in Scottsdale is how naturally this balance can be built into daily life.
Here are some of my favorite local safe spots and resources for staying active:
🌳 Indian Bend Wash Greenbelt (Scottsdale Greenbelt)
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Over 11 miles of connected pathways
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Perfect for running, cycling, walking
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Safe, well-maintained, with beautiful landscaping
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Links several parks — ideal for variety and scenery
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Great for active breaks between meetings!
🚴♂️ Road Cycling & Mountain Biking
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Scottsdale is extremely bike-friendly, with dedicated lanes throughout much of the city
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McDowell Sonoran Preserve: 225+ miles of trails for mountain biking & hiking
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Many local group rides available through area bike shops
🏊♂️ Swimming
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Scottsdale’s many public pools and private clubs make it easy to swim year-round
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I personally value swimming for building endurance and clearing the mind
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Sunset swim? One of the best ways to transition from work mode to relaxation
🏓 Pickleball — America’s Fastest Growing Sport
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Scottsdale is fast becoming a national hotspot for pickleball
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The city is building the largest dedicated pickleball facility in the U.S. (under development — nearly 40 courts planned!)
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Many clubs already offer excellent courts (DC Ranch, Scottsdale Ranch Park, etc.)
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Great for social connection + fun cardio
⚖️ Finding Your Own Balance
The key isn’t which sport you choose — it’s that you choose something.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, executive, or real estate agent, building regular sport or movement into your week will help you:
✅ Perform better at work
✅ Improve resilience under stress
✅ Stay connected to the Scottsdale lifestyle many of us value so much
I encourage all of my clients, whether relocating here or long-time residents, to take advantage of the incredible active living opportunities our region offers.
Work hard — but also move, sweat, and recharge.
That’s true luxury. That’s balance.
👉 Contact Arnaud Lavigne | AGL Real Estate — your guide to living well and investing smart in Arizona.
