John A. Brink on Why ADHD is a Superpower and Being a Healthy CEO

John A. Brink's story is nothing short of remarkable. His journey from the ravages of war-torn Holland to becoming a serial entrepreneur and professional bodybuilder is a narrative that encapsulates the very essence of human resilience and the pursuit of lifelong success.

John shows no signs of slowing down at 83 (soon-to-be 84) years old.

This leads to the point that, growing up, we often hear that adversity breeds character. And in this conversation with John, we’re discussing not only adversity but also succeeding in entrepreneurship against all odds and forming an unstoppable mindset.

John is the President and CEO of the Brink Group of Companies and 10+ other companies. He's also the author of three books and hosts the ON THE BRINK Podcast series.

As he shares his story with us, we also unpack the unexpected advantages of personal challenges like ADHD. John's insights on converting trials into triumphs offer a masterclass in leveraging what some may see as limitations to our advantage.

This episode explores how lifestyle choices like diet, exercise, and a positive mindset significantly impact our health as we age and our overall approach to living.

Through John's narrative, we unearth the misconceptions about aging and learn how cultivating a balance between work and personal interests contributes to a life well-lived, regardless of the number of candles on our birthday cake.

Here are three big lessons we can all take away from John Brink's inspiring tale.

Embrace Adversity as a Catalyst for Growth

One of the most compelling takeaways from John A. Brink's life story is his perspective on adversity. Growing up during the Second World War, John faced numerous challenges that could have easily derailed his ambitions. However, he saw each obstacle as an opportunity to develop character and strength.

He didn't just overcome adversity; he used it as a springboard for personal and professional growth. This mindset is a powerful reminder that the struggles we encounter can be the very things that propel us forward, shaping us into resilient individuals capable of achieving great success.

**John A. Brink**

John A. Brink was born in 1940 in Nazi-occupied Holland during the Second World War. From the time he could walk, his days often consisted of foraging for food with his brother and sister during harsh warlike conditions, surrounded by death and hardship, especially during the hunger winter of 1944/45.
John’s mother was left to raise her three kids alone when their father was drafted into the Dutch Army. They wouldn’t know if he was dead or alive until the liberation of their village, by Canadian soldiers, on April 12, 1945. This was the exact moment when John determined he would one day move to Canada - the land of his heroes. He was only five years old when this decision was rendered. Like many others who lived through that time, John has lived his entire life with the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), resulting from being in a warzone.
After serving in the Dutch Air Force for two years, John subsequently emigrated to Canada in July 1965, arriving in Prince George with $25.47 in his pocket.
John’s other lifelong dream of owning a sawmill came to fruition 10 years later in 1975 with the creation of Brink Forest Products, which has since become North America’s leading secondary manufacturer of value-added wood products.
At 83, John continues to success in his role as President and CEO of the Brink Group of Companies and 10+ other companies. John is the author of three books and the host of the ON THE BRINK Podcast series. He is also a fierce advocate for erasing the stigma surrounding ADHD, something John has lived with his entire life.
In his spare time, John enjoys riding dressage, body -building, philanthropy, writing, public speaking and spending time with his family, wife and animals.
In recognition of John’s lifelong achievements, he was awarded an honorary Doctorate of Laws Degree by the University of Northern British Columbia. Less than a month later, he also received the Order of B.C. in June 2019, the highest achievement a civilian in BC, Canada can achieve.
John committed to a $1 million dollar donation to the College of New Caledonia to help support the Trades And Technology Centre. John’s vision with this donation is to create a Centre of Excellence for Northern British Columbia that helps enhance Northern work forces, economies and population growth.

Defy Age-Related Stereotypes and Live with Vitality

At 83, John Brink is a testament to the idea that age is merely a number, not a limit on our capabilities. Through his dedication to fitness, a predominately plant-based diet, and a positive outlook on life, John has maintained a health and vitality that defies age-related stereotypes. His commitment to a healthy lifestyle teaches how our daily choices can dramatically impact our well-being, regardless of age. John's journey encourages us to challenge societal norms about aging and to actively cultivate a balance between work and personal interests for a fulfilling life.

The Power of a Positive Mindset and Healthy Living

John Brink's entrepreneurial spirit is closely tied to his belief in the power of a positive mindset. Even in unfavorable circumstances, such as bad weather or a health scare, John emphasizes the importance of maintaining a positive outlook. Coupled with healthy living practices like regular sleep, abstaining from harmful substances, and engaging in exercise, this mindset is crucial for sustaining physical and mental well-being. John's routine demonstrates that success does not require sacrificing one's health; instead, it's about integrating healthy habits into our daily lives to achieve a strong and resilient body that can support our endeavors.

Conclusion

As discussed in the podcast, John A Brink's story is a blueprint for turning life's adversities into triumphs. His journey teaches us to embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, to defy age-related stereotypes, and to prioritize a positive mindset and healthy living. Whether we are entrepreneurs, professionals, or individuals seeking to improve our lives, John's resilience and reinvention serve as a potent reminder that we can write our success stories, no matter what obstacles we face. As we navigate our paths, let's take these lessons to heart and strive to become the CEOs of our health and life, just as John has done.