In Pursuit of Peace
I have spent most of my adult life competing in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, a discipline that emphasizes you don’t need to prove strength through force. I earned my black belt after years of training —an achievement that seemed impossible when I began my journey 23 years ago.
But what most people don’t see is that I’ve fought another opponent off the mats – one that doesn’t easily submit. It takes the form of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and negative feelings.
Through Magna’s health and wellness programs, I’ve found a safe space to get help and become the husband, father, and professional I want to be. I’m sharing my story during Movember with hopes that others will start their own mental health journey and achieve the same level of happiness.
I am proud to work for a company that prioritizes our well-being in the workplace and fosters an environment where people can thrive.
Movember reminds us that mental and physical health are deeply connected – when we care for the mind, the body follows, and vice versa.
My message: We are not machines. We are not Terminators, even if we believe we can perform like robots. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, seek professional help. You may not get it right the first time, but don’t be discouraged. Take care of yourself, so you can take care of other people.
Growing up in Mexico, I was taught that real men don’t cry. The only acceptable emotion is anger. When I emigrated to Canada to work in the automotive industry, I suffered from “imposter syndrome,” doubting my accomplishments as an engineer, despite being competent and successful.
Two things have made a difference: Magna’s Good for You Wellness Program and my wife, Paulina’s, encouragement. I’ve been in psychotherapy for seven years and have a daily structure that helps me to gain control over my thoughts, behaviours, and feelings.
When I wake up, I make my side of the bed – the first success of the day – and say, “Today is going to be a great day.” My morning habits include reading affirmations I keep on my iPhone. I repeat my mission in life: “I’m going to be happy, healthy, rested, and in peace.”
Journaling has been a great tool. When I tried it in 2017, I failed. My journal from that year has just one page. But when I returned to it in 2022 with a clear structure, the words began to flow. Today, I have many pages. They start with three things I’m grateful for, three things I’m proud of, and what is bothering me. This practice helps me to be aware of my emotions.
The career benefits of renewed mental health are enormous. As a Chief Customer Engineer, I’m able to connect on a human level, which helps me build and maintain strong partnerships. My emotional balance has been a catalyst for growth beyond engineering: in February, I took on a new role as co-founder and co-chair of the Magna Latino council.
I’m proud to work for a company that prioritizes our well-being in the workplace and fosters an environment where people can thrive. The lessons are similar to what I’ve learned in Jiu-Jitsu: true strength isn’t about overpowering others but embracing who we are.
*This document was translated using Microsoft Translator.
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