A few thoughts are rolling around inside my head today after a recent conversation with someone about a dad not acting like a dad . . . . But I suppose the same thoughts would apply to a mom not acting like a mom, or a spouse not acting like a spouse.

Here’s a question for you: How many tombstones say “He kept his company profitable?” Doing so is important for the job, but work-life balance is important for the life that holds that job.

Here’s another question to ponder: How much undivided attention do you give your family?

Then allow yourself to ponder this: What would have made your life different growing up? What would you have liked more of in your childhood that you didn’t have … something that would have made a difference in your life to enable you to be more successful and/or more fulfilled?

Ask around, and I’ll bet you find that “quality time with parents” is at or near the top of everyone’s list. So if you have kids, are you giving them that, or do you think “I made it okay, so they can figure it out, too.” ??

And what about time with your spouse? A friend of mine once said “When I was dating my wife, I couldn’t wait to help her out with things. Even simple things like putting gas in her car for her. Now I groan at the thought of having to do that.”

If any of the above remotely resembles your thoughts, maybe it’s time for a bit of reflection. No, don’t just nod your head. Do it. Schedule 30 minutes to take an inventory of where you are — and also where you’d rather be. What’s stopping you from getting there?

As I’m fond of saying, “First you’re born, then you have choices.” With that in mind, what could you choose to do for your future that you’re not doing now?

Everyone has 30 minutes. Really, what could you choose to do that you’re not doing now?

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Filed in Opinion, Motivation, Coaching, work-life balance