31 May 2010 5 things to think about while you are at the office

I recently came across EF’s post entitled 5 Things to Think About On Your Day Off and started to comment; instead I thought I’d pull out some etiquette from before twitter and post a response on my blog.

I know, who blogs anymore?

Well, here it is, with my humble apologies to Opinion @ Large. Perhaps we can agree to disagree, or even realize that I’m only speaking to the other side because I do believe a healthy balance needs both.

5 things to think about while you are at the office

1. Children don’t stop growing while you are working. And you never get the time back.
2. Don’t ignore your family while you are working and developing your career; never assume that they will be there for you tomorrow if you are never there for them today.
3. Instead of thinking about how many hours you work, think about how many hours you don’t work. Then think about how many of those are given over to sleep and commuting. Then think about how many of those waking, at-home hours overlap with time when your kids or spouse are awake.  It will certainly change your perspective.
4. It’s much easier and satisfying to focus on what you have accomplished than what you haven't, but success in business does not make people happy if it has cost them fulfilling, connected relationships at home.
5. You will always be able to find a reason not to do something about your work-life balance; it’s just a question of whether you let yourself look for an excuse.