Three things I learnt about business from visiting Machu Picchu

At Brand Revolution, we believe great work starts with grounded people.

And by that, we mean people who are present, balanced, and share their secrets of inner peace with all, especially their teams. 

Which is why I wanted to share my recent trip to Machu Picchu, and the three things I learnt during my journey. 

Why Machu Picchu? 

I recently embarked on a trip of a lifetime to one of the world’s most iconic sites: Machu Picchu. 

It had been on my travel bucket list for years, not just because of its outstanding beauty, but because the trek along the Inca Trail would be a challenge - both physically, mentally, and emotionally. 

Nestled high in the Peruvian Andes, this ancient wonder is a lasting relic of the once all-powerful Inca Empire. Abandoned in the 16th century when the Spaniards invaded, this lost city begs you to take a moment to reflect. To pause. To breathe deeply. 

And for me, I needed the sort of pause that one can only achieve at 2,400 metres above sea level.

The importance of a pause

We’re often told to slow down, take a break, and rest. 

But sometimes, when you want to succeed in your chosen field, slowing down feels counterintuitive. 

Especially as a leader. 

I’m lucky enough to be one of the founders of Brand Revolution, which is one of my greatest achievements to date. 

However, when it comes to slowing down, that’s almost impossible. There’s always a question that needs answering or a task that needs my input. 

It’s a struggle to find the time to step back, pause, and look at the overall picture. 

That’s why taking a pause needs to be a priority. It needs to be scheduled in. 

And I found my moment of pause at Machu Picchu. 

Away from my to-do lists and deadlines, I was able to recharge and find clarity. I’ve returned mentally sharper with a renewed energy for my work. 

And yeah, on paper, I was on a break, sure. 

But in reality, it wasn’t time lost thanks to an Out of Office and cancelled meetings - it was insight gained.

Insight that’s inspired me to emphasise our reflective leadership at Brand Revolution even more - because true business growth can only be achieved when personal growth occurs, too.

Growth beyond my comfort zone

I’d be remiss in my reflection if I didn’t mention the demanding trek along the Inca Trail you have to do in order to reach Machu Picchu in the first place. 

With early mornings, high altitudes, and unfamiliar terrain, it tested my hiking skills to near breaking point. 

However, we don’t grow when things are easy - something else this trip taught me. 

Whether it’s hiking up a mountain or taking a bold, creative risk, progress lives just beyond our comfort zone. 

Pushing yourself in new environments builds resilience and sparks inspiration you can bring back into the workplace. 

Reconnecting with yourself to reconnect with others

It’s easy to let one day roll into the next and lose yourself in the cycle of life and business. 

This can lead to feeling disconnected from those around you and yourself. 

My journey allowed me to appreciate the wonder that is Machu Picchu, reminding me how important it is to have those quiet moments where you can hear your own thoughts again. 

By reconnecting with yourself, you’re able to have deeper, more meaningful human connections in the workplace. 

When you prioritise reconnection, you gain creative clarity. 

But above all, when you take a moment to pause and reconnect with yourself and others, you become a more authentic leader, one that people admire and look up to. 

Bringing it back to Brand Revolution

As Brand Revolution continues to grow, both through exciting client partnerships and recent

acquisitions, I want us to remain committed to a people-first mindset, where the personal and professional are never separate, but deeply intertwined.

We’re prioritising a culture where reflection is encouraged, adventure is embraced, and personal development is seen as vital to professional excellence. 

It’s a reminder that when we take the time to reset, we return not just refreshed, but reenergised to lead, create, and connect with purpose. 

Because that’s what Brand Revolution is all about: bold ideas, fearless innovation, and a relentless passion for authenticity and impact.