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Priorities Set Straight

OK- I admit it: I bailed for the summer... I deserted Seville. They say if it's too hot, get out of the kitchen, so I did. We've been spending the summer in Tennessee at another house we have: it's a beautiful change of pace and scenery. Not being retired, this thing called work seems to get in the way sometime for some people, including me! Our main office is in New York, and I rotate my time there, along with Arizona and Tennessee. Thanks to technology, it gives me the time to spend with my family as well as giving me some time to enjoy life and take care of our clients at the same time. It's the balance of life and work thing: the endless battle to satisfy and enjoy both.

The balance of our working life conjoined with our family life is an often blurry and moving divisional line. Add to that our current economy where we strive to hold onto our job, or relationships and our sanity and it adds up to one very insane lifestyle. So, I ask you... when was the last time you consciously thought about the balance between your work life and your home life? Has work gotten so consuming that you forget that you have a family, home life and garbage to go out on Sunday nights? If so, it's time to take a step back and re-evaluate how you spend your work time in relation to your family and personal time. In this period of economic uncertainty, it is east to achieve "work-a-holic” status while trying harder to be at the top of your game in the fear that there are others waiting to take your place. It what you are sacrificing at home worth the occupational pursuit?

I have a close friend who has a car dealership. Sunday historically is the best day for sales: he is closed. There is a sign on the door that says "Sunday- closed for family day.” I admire that he puts family above the almighty dollar. (Shameless plug- don't to Heggs Auto Group on Sunday). Do you observe "family day” in your family and in your business life? If you are a commuter or travel a lot in your occupation, speak with your employer to see if telecommuting is feasible at least one day a week. The reduction of travel time alone will help to rejuvenate you and give you a chance to catch your breath- not to mention the few hours a week saved that can be dedicated to family time. Keeping track of your time is a feat easily lost when in the throes of a corporate project. Try to keep your commitments to your family as you do to your work life- they will thank you for it. If you drive to work, try to carpool and make that time more social than just dedicated drive time. Take a scenic route instead of the highway ( I know... if you seen one cactus, you've seen them all!). If you are fortunate to work near home, consider biking or walking- your body will thank you. Examine your priorities and do what's best for you and your family. Lastly, ask yourself, at the end of the day... ” was this a balanced day?” If not, take a step back and look again as to how to balance your business and family life... everybody around you will thank you.

Work is a necessary evil. We need it to generate the funds to pay for our everyday living. It should not, however, be the number one priority in your life... just ask your family. Be back when the temps drop a little and see you on the tee!

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