When I coach executives, I inevitably turn the conversation to, “What do you do for fun? Where do you take vacations? Do you have any hobbies? If you get fired today, would it seem like the end of your life?”
If the answers are: “I work, I don’t take vacations, I have no hobbies, and yes, it would feel like the end of my life,” I suggest that you are too wrapped up in your job. After all, you don’t want to look back with regrets – and, for the most part, if you were hit by a bus, the company wouldn’t miss a beat.
So, what is the answer? Slow down, and make a list of what’s important to you in life. Then, look at how you’re living your life. If the two lists aren’t congruent, perhaps it’s time to take time — to enjoy the moment and do what’s important.
I’ve interviewed many retired people, and not one has said, “I wish I would have worked harder and longer.”
Talk about setting your priorities straight!