Two years ago, I was in the middle of the best year of my life. My family and I were on a sabbatical, traveling around Europe in our 6m campervan. From the stunning Mediterranean coast to the beautiful landscapes of Switzerland, some of the most memorable moments of our trip were riding go-karts and scooters down Alpine mountains, seeing the northern lights and soaking in the serene beauty of the European countryside, every day was a new adventure.
During this time, I was in a great mental and emotional space. The sabbatical allowed me to recharge and find my mojo. I felt incredibly grateful and privileged to be able to have such an experience.
However, amid the joy and excitement, a nagging question lingered: What would I do after this trip of a lifetime ended?
Navigating the Crossroads
As our travels continued, I found myself in a strange space, overwhelmed by the possibilities open to me. The options seemed endless, but I struggled to make sense of them. I was also battling a familiar foe — imposter syndrome. The fear of failure and the potential of letting everyone down loomed large.
In my quest for clarity, I turned to some great books and podcasts (thank you Rich Roll and Stephen Bartlett), these educators offered me some profound insights. Their message was clear: whatever I did next had to be of service to others and align, really align with my core values. This realisation was a turning point. I delved into the concept of Ikigai, a Japanese term that means “a reason for being.” I pondered over what I enjoyed, what gave me energy, what was I good at? What did others need? and what could I transform into a business?
It all Comes Down to Connections
Despite not finding an immediate answer (that would take a further 18 months), I now had a framework to design my future. I knew that my next venture needed to be grounded in genuinely helping people and creating connections. It had to enable people to develop meaningful relationships that would stand the test of time.
Fast forward nearly two years, and I’m thrilled that this search has culminated in MindPick — a business dedicated to connecting companies and their teams to mentors and advisors focused on their growth and success. I’m most excited by the opportunity of Growth Pods. These pods create new networks, build friendships, and foster a sense of community where people support each other in becoming more successful.
The Birth of MindPick
The journey to MindPick wasn’t instantaneous. It was a process of introspection, learning, and growth. My background, with over 25 years in the FMCG industry, equipped me with the knowledge and experience needed to understand the importance of mentorship and peer support. MindPick is the culmination of my passion for helping people grow in their careers and my commitment to creating lasting, impactful connections.
I believe that the right connections can transform people, careers and businesses. My mission with MindPick is to provide a platform where companies and individuals can find the guidance and support they need to thrive. I’m focused on connecting people, and a genuine commitment to the success of our clients.
Looking Ahead
As I reflect on this journey, I feel incredibly grateful for the experiences that led me here. The sabbatical was not just a break; it was a pivotal period that allowed me to realign my values and discover my true passion and purpose. MindPick is more than a business—it’s a community dedicated to fostering growth, building meaningful relationships, and making a positive impact. I really believe it’s a business I can be proud of and will enjoy being part of.
I invite you to join us at MindPick. Whether you’re looking for advisory, mentorship, peer support, or simply a community of like-minded individuals, MindPick is here to help you succeed. Let’s connect, grow, and make a difference together.
For more about Paul Bull’s professional journey, visit his LinkedIn profile.
