Dhruvin Patel's Linkedin Analytics

Have you ever really stopped to listen? I’ve been in India recently where the constant buzz of traffic, chatter, and construction is simply overwhelming. It made me realise just how much noise can impact our health. Living in Tunbridge Wells now, I enjoy a quieter, calmer atmosphere. It’s a reminder of how our environment shapes our wellbeing. Here are five key takeaways on noise pollution: 1/ Health at Risk Noise isn’t just annoying. It’s linked to heart attacks, type 2 diabetes and dementia. The risks are more real than we might think. 2/ Stress in Numbers In Barcelona, traffic noise is estimated to contribute to 300 heart attacks and 30 deaths a year. It’s a reminder of how dangerous constant noise can be. 3/ Sleep Sabotage Unwanted sounds can trigger our fight-or-flight response even when we're asleep. This makes restful sleep a luxury in noisy environments. 4/ Personal Experience on the Ground I strapped on a sound meter while in India. The relentless honking or chatter sent my heart rate soaring. It was an eye-opener on how noise can become a silent killer. 5/ The Value of Quiet Choosing to live in Tunbridge Wells has its perks. A quieter environment means a healthier lifestyle. This has really made me think about the trade-off between urban hustle and personal health. Is all that noise just background hum... Or is it silently harming us? What are your thoughts on living in a noisy world?

As a leader your job is to protect your team. There was someone in my team, who is their own worst enemy. They don’t take time off. They don’t put any leave in their calendar. Then, when they least expect it - they become unwell. Because they’re burned out, stressed or just need a break. I admire the will to keep putting the hours, in - I really do. I’ve been there. But for my team, the above isn’t sustainable. As a leader, I need to ensure I’m reminded them to have processes in place to not neglect holidays. Putting holidays in their request forms in advance for our 1-1’s. It not only helps them, but it helps the organisation. Planned out of office is way better than abrupt, length time off from key staff members. Have you experience this before in your teams?

Whilst everyone is busy trying AI tools, I’m doing the opposite. I'm waiting for the dust to settle. There’s sooo much coming out. AI tools, left, right and centre. For email optimisation, for enhancing your team Outreach for business development You name it, there’s an AI tool for it But, I’ve been there - tried and failed Testing new tools out in their infancy Some work, like Fyxer AI (great email management tool) Others, just s*ck… I’m waiting for my network or expert team members to tell me - what really is of value Then adopting it. We only have so many hours in a day. Discovering tools is an expensive hobby - if you can afford it, it’s great! But if you’re time poor, like most founders or leaders etc - trust me, the above approach will save you some headspace rushing to try the new shiny object going viral on LinkedIn, like Broady or whatever else is next… or was next.

Ever wondered why you wake up feeling brilliant, yet by night, everything seems to drag on? I’ve been thinking a lot about my own energy levels lately. I wake up feeling on top of the world. Refreshed, clear-headed, and ready to tackle the day. But by the time evening rolls around, it feels a bit heavier. A recent study of nearly 50,000 UK adults over two years confirmed what many of us experience. Our mood is at its peak in the morning, with happiness. Come midnight, however, low mood set in. It’s fascinating how our bodies and minds work, isn’t it? For me, part of this shift is due to our modern lifestyles. Early mornings often mean a dose of natural sunlight, which boosts cortisol levels and sets our circadian rhythm. But as the day goes on, blue light from our screens begins to take its toll, making it harder to wind down. Here’s what I’ve learned from reflecting on this: 1️⃣ Prioritise Your Mornings: Tackle the tough tasks first when you’re naturally more focused and upbeat. 2️⃣ Protect Your Evenings: Try to reduce blue light exposure in the evening. It really helps your sleep and mood. 3️⃣ Establish a Wind-Down Ritual: Develop an evening routine that helps you decompress. A short walk, or some mindfulness can do wonders. 4️⃣ Keep Track of Your Energy: Notice how your mood shifts throughout the day and adjust your schedule accordingly. Your body’s telling you something important. How do you manage your energy and mood from morning until night?

Does a leader remain composed when the heat is on, or use their position for personal gain? Everyone was stunned last weekend... Trump’s aggressive outburst against Zelensky was all over the news. Zelensky kept his cool. He didn’t respond with anger. Instead, he stayed true to himself. Here’s what I see in true leadership: 1️⃣ Calm Under Fire: Zelensky’s restraint in the face of harsh criticism shows real grit. 2️⃣ Integrity Over Opportunism: While some seemed to push their own agenda, he focused on what mattered most... his people’s security and dignity. 3️⃣ Leading by Example: His steady demeanour reminds us that leadership isn’t about loud declarations. It’s about maintaining character when everything gets tough. I’ve always believed that real leaders inspire by how they conduct themselves under pressure. Zelensky’s actions speak louder than any heated words. What do you think? Is it better to lead with composure, or does power demand a tougher stance?

How’d you sleep last night? I’ve been thinking a lot about sleep lately... Those nights when you just can’t get enough shut-eye, and then the next day your brain feels utterly muddled. One study claims that when we’re sleep deprived, our brain’s cleaning crew, the astrocytes, go into overdrive... and might even start nibbling away at up to 13% of our neurons. In human terms, that’s billions of cells lost over a lifetime! It sounds straight out of a sci-fi thriller, doesn’t it? But here’s the twist... Another study published in the Journal of Neuroscience suggests this “self-eating” might be a temporary, reversible process... A kind of natural synaptic pruning that lets our brains reset after a good night’s sleep. This leaves us with 2 things to think about: 1/ The Alarming View: Chronic sleep deprivation causes irreversible neuron loss, essentially eating away our brainpower. OR 2/ The Reassuring Perspective: It might just be a temporary clean-up, with our brains bouncing back once we catch enough sleep. For me... Whether or not our brains are permanently damaged, it’s clear that quality sleep is non-negotiable. I’m determined to treat my sleep like the valuable resource it is because if we’re losing neurons (or even just risking it), that’s a cost we simply can’t afford. What do you think? Is our sleep really a matter of brain survival, or is it just another overhyped science story?

Ever thought your bathroom mirror could be your new personal health coach? I saw Withings’ AI smart mirror doing 360° scans, offering insights on heart health and even vitamin levels... Imagine starting your day with that kind of feedback! And then there were Ozlo’s snore-blocking earbuds (a true “marriage-saver,” they joked)! A waterproof 110-inch TV that laughs in the face of weather, and even a robotic pool cleaner that maps out your pool like a GPS for debris. These innovations aren’t just cool gadgets... They’re hints at a future where technology blends seamlessly with our lives. But it also got me wondering... As these devices get more personal, how do we balance convenience with privacy? And are we ready for a world where everyday items are powered by AI? Are you excited about these developments or a bit cautious about what they mean for our daily routines?

What do you truly want? Take five minutes... Sit down, close your eyes and visualise it all as if it’s already true. Immerse yourself in that vision. Then, show some gratitude for it. It’s amazing how a simple exercise like this can shift your brain from a state of fear to one of trust. That shift is the gateway to real change in both our personal and professional lives. I’m not saying it’s a magic wand but it’s certainly a powerful tool that’s helped me to refocus and tackle challenges with renewed confidence. It’s all about being crystal clear on what you want and then feeling thankful for it even before it appears on your calendar. How do you clear your mind and set the tone for success? I’d love to hear your thoughts and techniques. P.S. No need to overthink it... Just give it a go and see the difference it makes. Video footage courtesy of Right Example (@RightExample)

Every extra hour of screen time can boost the risk of developing myopia by 21%. Myopia isn’t merely about needing glasses; it’s a condition where distant objects appear blurry because the eyeball grows too long or the eye’s focusing power is too strong. In extreme cases, high myopia can lead to serious issues like retinal damage, even blindness. While I’m not a parent yet... I do care deeply about kids eye health. In our digital age, it’s imperative we take steps to safeguard young generation's vision. Here are a few simple strategies: 1/ Set Screen Time Limits: Whether it’s for studies or leisure, being mindful of the hours they spend on screens can make a difference. 2/ Follow the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet away. 3/ Boost Outdoor Time: Even a short walk or play outside exposes them to natural light, which is crucial for healthy eyes. 4/ Optimise Your Screen Settings: Adjust brightness, contrast, and font sizes to reduce glare and minimise eye strain. 5/ Consider Blue Light Protection: It’s interesting to see initiatives like the one at Salterforth Primary School in Barnoldswick, the first UK school offering free blue light glasses to pupils. This kind of forward-thinking approach really highlights how we can protect our eyes in a digital world. I’m sharing this because I believe that looking after kids' eye health is not just for parents... It’s for everyone. Let’s make a conscious effort to balance young generation's digital lives with healthy eye habits. How do you help in protecting eye health in today’s screen-filled environment?

Fractional hiring for startups, is a shortcut. Mr Beast, is definitely onto something. Startups need expertise, to make decisions fast. Mid-level or junior staff, learn by failing and testing. Arguably needed for their self development, but not necessarily the business. Fractional hires who have been there, done it before can give them the answers. That’s what we’ve done at Ocushield. We’ve paired our team members up with fractional leaders who have done it before. From, Chief Marketing Offices to Chief Finance Officers… And, it’s working a charm. You have, hungry team members wanting to learn and be coached by fractional talent Plus, the business cuts out wasted time on projects or tasks, that experienced leaders know won’t work. So, if you’re stuck in an area of your business - power your team by bringing on a vetted expert… Even a day a month, can pay dividends. It reminds me of what Mr Beast says… Hire consultants who can help you do the thing you want to do aka fractional talent. Why try to figure the rubix cube out yourself?!

Every ending is a chance for a brilliant new beginning. Not long ago, my team came across a surprising email on our competitor's mailing list... An announcement that they were closing shop and offering a final 50% clearance on their stock. It was a wake-up call. Instead of just watching them fade away, I reached out to the company owners. They confirmed that the business was shutting down. Rather than taking on a failing enterprise, we saw a golden opportunity. We negotiated to acquire their key assets... Their domain, email list, and online presence to boost our brand visibility. Given that around 40% of our trade comes from the US, this move has significantly strengthened our position in the market. Here’s what I took away from the experience: 1/ Spot Opportunity in Adversity: When competitors crumble, it might be your moment to shine. 2/ Act with Clarity: Identify what truly matters. We didn’t need the whole business, just the assets that could drive our growth. 3/ Embrace Strategic Acquisitions: It’s not just about expansion; it’s about reinforcing your market position with the right resources. Have you ever turned a competitor’s setback into a breakthrough for your business?

Most people wander aimlessly. Why not start by asking, 'What do I really want? It’s a stark truth: while many of us are busy doing what we think we should do, few ever take the time to define our true vision. When you’re clear about your own direction, every decision naturally moves you closer to where you want to be, and the chaos in your head starts to clear. Here’s what I've learned: ✅ Know Your True North: Stop chasing what others expect. Define what you really want and let it guide every step. ✅ Align Every Decision: When each choice reflects your vision, your path becomes focused and success follows. ✅ Transform Chaos into Clarity: A clear vision turns overwhelming chaos into purposeful action. I believe that genuine success comes not from following prescribed paths but from having the courage to pursue what truly matters to you. Do you think real progress is made when we take the time to define our own goals? Video footage courtesy of Learn with Jaspal (@LearnwithJaspal)

The secret to smashing procrastination? Face your toughest challenge head-on. Andrew Huberman suggests a surprising trick for beating procrastination: instead of choosing the easier distractions, try taking on the task that scares you the most. It sounds counterintuitive, but when you challenge yourself with something tough, your brain releases a surge of dopamine that can reset your motivation and boost your productivity. Here are a few things to think about: 1/ Embrace the Challenge: Instead of dodging the hard work, lean into it. That initial effort might just be the kick-start you need. 2/ Break the Cycle: Replace your habit of opting for easy wins with a deliberate choice to confront the difficult task. The sense of achievement can be transformative. 3/ Use the Dopamine Boost: Recognise that this natural chemical boost isn’t just a fleeting feeling; it can propel you forward for the rest of the day. What do you think? Have you ever noticed a change in your productivity when you tackled your most daunting task first? Video footage courtesy of Right Example (@RightExample)

I've never been formally trained in leadership... As a founder, you learn as you go. Over the years, I've carved out my own style, and I recently had the pleasure of sharing my Dragons’ Den journey with People Management. Here are a few leadership lessons that have truly shaped my path: 1/ Fail to Prepare, Prepare to Fail: Standing before those Dragons was daunting. Relentless prep was the secret, Plus knowing your business inside out. Rehearse until it’s second nature. 2/ Lean on Your Team: I’m not a whiz with numbers, but my co-founder is. Great leadership means recognising your strengths. And admitting your weaknesses. Then delegating to those who excel. 3/ Embrace Calculated Risks: Stepping into uncharted territory is scary. But if you keep doing the same old thing, you'll never see different results. Trust your gut and venture off the beaten track. 4/ Use Fear as Fuel: Self-doubt can be paralyzing. Instead, let that fear drive you to work harder... Refine your pitch, and seize every opportunity to improve. 5/ Resilience and Knowing When to Say No: Not every opportunity is right for you. Stay true to your vision and bounce back from setbacks. That’s the real mark of leadership. Remember that every setback is just another stepping stone towards a sharper vision and a stronger strategy. What’s your biggest leadership challenge, and how have you overcome it?

I never thought my body could run for 2 hours straight. But a couple weeks ago, I did. I ran a half marathon with my fiancée. And somewhere along the way, it hit me… It’s not just about the finish line. It’s about what running teaches you in the process. Clarity. Discipline. Resilience. Connection. Things that translate far beyond fitness. Here’s what I took from the journey: - A strong heart supports a sharp mind Without physical health, it’s hard to perform mentally. - Clarity comes with movement Some of my best ideas come mid-run, not mid-meeting. - Resilience is built, not found Training forces you to show up even when you don’t want to. - Sleep improves when your body is working for it Deeper rest, faster recovery – it all adds up. - Doing hard things together strengthens relationships Running with someone builds trust. Momentum. Shared energy. I used to think running was boring. Now I see it as a tool. Not just for health – but for my mind, my mood, and my work. Here's to completing my first half marathon... Will I be doing a full marathon anytime soon?! Probably not, 4 hours of running isn't appealing to me, just yet :P

If you're raising money or thinking about it, here’s a nugget of wisdom... You've got to have a business that’s attractive enough to pitch. Investors aren’t jumping on ideas that are “just about to take off”... They want to see positive signals, real progress, and a clear direction. One of the best pieces of advice I received was not to immediately ask for money. Instead, focus on building deep relationships and seek advice first. I remember meeting an investor, Asad at an event. I wasn’t pitching for funds; I was asking for his perspective. Through several meet-ups, he got to know the kind of person I was, my journey, and the character behind the business. He realised that what I was doing was right up his street, as an optometrist and former Telefonica franchisee with a keen eye for technology. He not only invested, but became part of the founding team. That connection eventually helped us raise over £1,500,000, with angel investors, family offices, and even a VC firm joining our cap table. The takeaway? Approach your fundraising conversations in a non-pitchy, genuine way. Focus on the business, build relationships, and let trust develop naturally. It’s those shared values and authentic connections that truly attract the right kind of investor. How have you approached fundraising or built meaningful investor relationships?

How are you? How is work? We need to do better. These questions suck. They lead to automatic responses No colour, no actual conversation…. Just, yeah good - not bad, it’s a busy time - blah blah blah. It’s almost feels unnatural to answer one of those questions without the default answers above. When did conversation become so one dimensional. I’ve started to think about how, if I get asked the above - how I can respond to create a conversation. & actually, its easier than you think. Talk about something, that’s happened in your day… and end with an open question. Talk about that coffee that you’ve just had that’s making you feel amazing… or the last thing your team spoke about in your social. Then hit them with a… “do you get that feeling from anything else?!” Or “what’s your team like at work?” I used to be pretty anal about getting straight to the point and “working”. As a leader, time is money after all… right? But now, I take a moment when I can to speak to my team, have a laugh, or just speak about a random topic. Yeah, it doesn’t always pan out into a deep conversation - but that’s not the point. Let’s just do better than asking questions, that actually don’t get a real answers. What do you think?

Big news – we’re bringing on an industry heavyweight! The former AXA Health CEO of 15+ years. I’m beyond chuffed to welcome Keith Gibbs, as an advisor Ocushield. Keith has spent decades shaping health insurance, driving better health outcomes at scale, and championing innovation in this space. Having someone of his calibre on board is a massive win for us as we continue to push the boundaries of digital eye care. Our goal? Transforming how people engage with their eye health. We’re already making waves with online eye screening service, but we’re not stopping there. Coming soon: - Eye Performance Score – A simple, actionable score out of 100 to help people track their eye health. - Self-management eye exercises – Practical tools to help reduce digital eye strain. Having Keith's expertise guiding us as we scale, innovate, and build the future of eye care is something I couldn’t be more excited about. There's soo much to do in the optical space, it's like its been slept on in the last two decades - its not caught up, whereas areas like physiotherapy have, and have adopted digital.

I'm 33 today 🥳 And like every birthday, it’s a good excuse to reflect. Over the last few years, I’ve built a business, worked with amazing people, made mistakes, celebrated wins, and kept learning. So here it is - 16 business lessons and 17 personal ones I’ve picked up along the way: Business... - Brand matters more than product. If people don’t remember you, they won’t buy from you. - Speed beats perfection. - Customers will tell you what to build - if you’re listening. - Great businesses are built by great people. - Don’t jump on every shiny trend - stick to your strengths. - Focus is underrated. - Cash flow is king, but profit keeps you free. - Your gut knows more than you think. - Hire slowly, fire kindly, but decisively. - If you can’t tell your story in 30 seconds, it’s too long. - Filter the advice - not everyone gets your journey. - Momentum is hard to build, easy to lose. - You can’t scale without letting go. - Market matters more than you think. - Everyone starts clueless. That’s normal. - Being kind gets you further than being right. Personal... - Health first - everything else follows. - Your partner is the most important decision in your life - The best moments are usually the smallest ones. - Keep your circle small and solid. - Love looks different across cultures - learn to see it. - You don’t have to fit a mould to win. - Comparison will rob your joy. Every time. - Time is your most valuable asset. - Talk to someone when you need to. No shame in it. - Say what matters while you can. - Running helped me reset - physically and mentally. - Writing things down is therapy. - Balance includes dessert. - Being busy isn’t the goal - being fulfilled is. - Choose someone who’s your teammate in life. - It’s okay to grow apart from people. - Gratitude genuinely shifts your mindset. Every time. Thanks to everyone who's been part of the ride so far - fiancé, family, friends, team, mentors, customers. You’ve shaped more of these lessons than you know 💙

I’m getting married in July. Let’s talk weddings… No one really likes to talk about the challenges, until after you’re married. But, I’ve spotted a common theme when asking previous brides & grooms. The fact the day flies by. Things go wrong and not as expected. You spend years and months planning. To feel exhausted by the end of the day. But the big one….is money. Weddings are expensive. To do, or not to do… that is the question. Me and my fiance Beth, spoke about it at length. To invest in memories or to invest in our future. We decided, well - the only time you have the sentiment of your loved ones around you and precious words spoken is when you either die or a wedding. Yes, a morbid thought - but it’s generally one of those things… most people save their dearest dialogues for the above two events. We decided, we wanted to celebrate the moment and have all of our loved ones around us. It got me thinking… how do we open up to one another and be kinder with our words, generally? Is there something we need to change as a society to make it more normal, out side of big events to tell people how much you mean to them? Open for tips, maybe I’m missing something… How do we share more intimate moments with friends and family? P.S - I hate admin, so planning a wedding is no fun - but I’ll be excited for when it arrives