Posted by Beth Fillerup on Thu, Feb 18, 2010 @ 05:58 PM
You have probably heard some variation of the quotes: "Life is what happens when we are busy making other plans" or "Life is a journey, not a destination." In my own life, I often find myself focused on "making other plans" and trying to reach my next "destination," working so hard in my business that I lose focus on the journey. Unfortunately, sometimes it takes a shock to the system to remind us that life is indeed a journey and that we need to enjoy every bit of it.
Sadly, I recently received one of those shocks. One of my sisters, Rose, died suddenly of a heart attack last month at the age of 57. An event like this makes you reevaluate your own life and rethink your priorities. It also shows you how quickly life can change and to make sure you are enjoying the journey along the way.
I have reflected a lot on my life over the last month and have concluded a couple of things. I feel fortunate to do the work I do - helping people achieve their business and personal goals and dreams is very rewarding; however, my life balance is lacking the attention it deserves.
Over 700 people attended my sister's funeral; it was clear that she had influenced so many in her circle of friends, family, and community, on so many levels. In addition, she maintained a healthy life balance of raising four kids, hiking in the Sierra Nevada (including Mount Whitney two years ago), educating hundreds of children, and working with the State and National Park Service to replant native species. It was apparent that she had recognized and truly appreciated her life journey.
Seeing Rose's journey so clearly and in stark contrast to my own, I realized that I and many other business owners I know are so busy "making other plans" and "reaching our destination" that we are not taking time to enjoy the journey. We believe that by working so hard, we will have more freedom and flexibility as we meet our future goals. In reality, we become one-dimensional: slaving away with less freedom while life passes us by.
I have started and encourage you to take time each week to plan - and calendar - what you are going to do for yourself. What activities will you participate in? What individuals will you spend more time with? Better yet, create a goal list of the top 10 items that you want to achieve in your life or that you want to begin working on.
My sister Rose will be remembered by many, including myself, for her positive influence and for the impact she had on our lives. I also have a little piece of her that I will carry with me through life - inspiration. I will use her inspiration to redirect and enjoy my current journey; not just always work toward a future goal or dream.
The Bottom Line
Life is short. Take time to assess whether you are living the life you want TODAY. I am a believer that through hard work we can achieve anything, and if we focus some of our hard work toward a sustainable life balance, we can get just that. Every week, make a point to plan and calendar time to maintain your life balance. I have to go now - I'm planting my spring garden. Thank you Rose.
Do you have life goals you'd like to share? If so, leave us a comment on our blog or email Michael at MGunther@collaboration-llc.com. Your goals will be featured in an upcoming blog or Facebook posting.
Michael Gunther is Founder and President of Collaboration LLC, a team of highly skilled business professionals who are dedicated to assisting proactive business owners to build profitable, sustainable businesses through results-oriented education, coaching, and consulting services. Learn more at www.collaboration-llc.com.