On Tuesday evenings, I stay late at the office to make some progress on my book. (By the way, if a draft isn’t complete by June 30th I have committed to getting the name Josh Miles tattooed on my left bicep. It’s a long story that involves 2 drinks (I typically stop at 1) at a Christmas party.)
Every time I begin working on the book, I am completely committed to staying until at least 10 or 11pm to maximize the amount of writing that gets done. However, I have yet to do it once and here’s why. As soon as the clock hits 8:15pm I realize that if I don’t go home immediately, I will not get to put my kids to bed which involves reading books, prayers and the final “tuck in”.
Last night was no different except for the fact that my daughter (Corinne, 3 yrs) had been out of town at her grandparents since Saturday. As soon as I got home, shut the door and begin my way upstairs, I heard a joyous “Daddy’s Home!” from both of the kids. My daughter literally jumped into my arms from near the top of the stairs, looked at me and said, “I’m so glad my daddy’s home, I missed you!”
At times I wonder if this silly need to tuck them in every night is really practical. Am I missing out on 6-8 hours of additional work each week that could propel my business?
Then, I have a daughter jump 3 stairs into my arms and I realize that there is no place I would rather be than with my family.
However, I will admit that it’s not always an easy decision. Just like everyone else, I really want my business to grow. But, I realize that I can’t do it all and I need to prioritize what’s important.
How about you? What do your priorities look like?
Tags: achieve, Business, commitment, dads, discipline, Habits, happiness, lessons, Priorities
I have always said that you can get rich later. There is such a short time to be a daddy (and it is the greatest job in the world!)that you need to make the most of it while you can.
Love this blog CJ! Years from now when your book is sitting on someone’s desk or even being discussed at seminars, your joy and pride from knowing you were a devoted, engaged, nuturing, loving father at a very critical time in your children’s lives, will far out weigh your business accomplishments. Besides, I think Josh Miles on your left bicep might look HOT!!!
Karen – I couldn’t agree more. Of course, I have to have the draft of my brand strategy book done by June 30th as well, or I have to teach an RLS class in drag. Yikes.