Ask 50 people to define what a ‘healthy lifestyle’ is, and you’ll likely get 50 different answers. For these two ladies, a healthy lifestyle simply means doing things that make you feel happy and content whilst assuming and fulfilling responsibilities.
Aljean Collett, as practice manager, and Mariaan Janse van Rensburg, as clinical assistant, play an integral role in Dr Justin Basson’s neurosurgery practice.
Living in the present moment – involving all one’s senses – is the stepping stone to attaining their professional goals and creating a balance in this busy lifestyle. You might meet them at the gym for a Pilates session, fine-dining at a restaurant, or sharing thoughts on the progress of their first Afrikaans novel in a coffee shop.
While on the outside, these unspoken traits may seem to play a part in what makes them successful, in truth it goes a lot deeper than that. There’s a sense of character that they rarely consider or synonymise with success. It’s these intrinsic traits that are the true driving force behind these two successful women. So, what are their differences?
Aljean is a professional photographer who enjoys nature and capturing all its splendour. She is an animal activist and has a flare for different dance styles – whether modern dancing or shaking it in a Zumba class. Aljean has learned from a very young age that you must accept that you are responsible for your actions, your reactions and ultimately your success and failures. This creates a mindset of empowerment and control.
Mariaan is a mother of three and sometimes gets lost in motherhood. Some days she needs music, a funny podcast, or simply another cup of coffee. She is a modest and silent adventurer who enjoys travelling. Her admiration for poetry and art has inspired her to write an Afrikaans novel. She believes that you can have it all – just not all at once.
“When we’re mindful, we reduce stress, enhance performance, gain insight and awareness though observing our own mind, and increase our attention to others’ well-being,” they state.
If you come across them, be sure to ask them about their adventures. They will enlighten you with fascinating stories. Being powerful and assertive yet kind at the same time, is a skill that comes natural to these two. It means being compassionate and vulnerable towards those they love in their lives without feeling weak for doing so.
“This is the real secret of life – to be completely engaged with what you are doing in the here and now. And instead of calling it work, realise it is play.” – Allan Watts.
