Ambar Maddox - Wine Ambassador, Pernod Ricard (Australia)

Years In Industry: 
Two years. I somewhat fell into the industry with absolutely no knowledge of it after being offered a position with Pernod Ricard as a part of their Graduate Program. As we all know, this industry forces us to learn hard and fast so it’s been quite the journey – especially switching from the entrepreneurial/start-up/non-for profit space over to corporate, however it’s been an absolute blast and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
 
My Biggest Challenge To Wellness: 
Remembering to put myself first. Just as I started out in the industry I was diagnosed with severe Ulcerative Colitis, which is an autoimmune disease similar to Crohn’s that is hugely impacted by stress, diet and sleep – things we all know to be the first things to spiral out of control when the dial switches up and it begins to get busy.
 
While it might sound ridiculous, most of the time I feel 100%, so despite having a chronic diagnosis it can be easy to forget to slow down and take time for myself when I need it. I’ve learnt the hard way of what the outcome of failing to prioritise your health can be and I can guarantee, living with chronic illness or not, it’s not worth it. 
 
How I Keep It Together To Stay Well: 
I try to get outside in nature as much as possible. As soon as I’m either at the beach or in a forest, I can feel my mind and body instantly breathe out and relax. There’s not many things that a swim can’t fix, so whether it be in the ocean or the hotel pool, I always find I’m happiest in the water. I also avoid drinking for the most part (ironic given my title but definitely doable!) and practice yoga and meditation daily.
 
You can connect with Ambar on Instagram @ambar.maddox or via LinkedIn.