Beyond the Run: Cultivating Balance, Energy, and Wellness

by Bon Pleto | July 10, 2026

Employee Journals

I have been with RareJob for almost four years now as a Senior Quality Assurance Engineer, having been promoted to this level in October 2025. In this role, I perform manual testing and maintain automated test suites, strategize, and plan out the type of testing I will be conducting into our system. Also I identify potential system risks early in the development lifecycle, and collaborate closely with cross-functional product teams.

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I started my running journey more than a year ago, initially motivated by a desire to boost my energy levels and manage daily stress more effectively. Over time, this evolved into a deeper passion for overall wellness. To keep things exciting, I’ve participated in several local 5K weekend community races. These events not only provide a great way to measure my progress but also surround me with like-minded individuals who share a commitment to healthy living.

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Beyond regular exercise, I prioritize several other healthy habits to maintain optimal well-being. Since I run in the evenings, I try adding quick active breaks throughout my workday, like doing desk stretches or taking a quick walk after lunch. Ensuring I get seven to eight hours of quality sleep each night is fundamental, as it allows my body to recover and keeps my mind sharp. I also focus on proper nutrition by incorporating plenty of whole foods, vegetables, taking supplements and adequate hydration into my daily diet. Just as important is listening to my body, which means taking rest days when needed to prevent burnout and injury.

Since becoming physically active, I have noticed significant improvements, including increased stamina, better muscle tone, and a much more positive mental state. This active lifestyle has profoundly improved my outlook on both work and life. During work hours, I feel far more focused and resilient, experiencing fewer midday lumps compared to when I had a more sedentary routine. I now approach challenges with greater clarity and a much more optimistic attitude.

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I believe that taking good care of ourselves is absolutely essential. Working from home can make it easy to be sedentary, so I prioritize self-care to maintain my energy and balance throughout the day.

If you’re thinking about starting a fitness journey, my advice is to start small and be consistent. You don’t need to do intense workouts right away; find something you enjoy, like a short walk or light stretching. For those already going, remember that every small step is progress.