From a cursory inspection, I might appear to be a workaholic. I admit I do like working. As many say, if you love what you do it isn't work. That sums it up fairly well for me. For whatever reasons, I find beauty and pleasure in a balanced account. Well organized financial records are fine wine to my mental pallet. Yes, laugh if you like.
But I would be remiss if I didn't say that my motivation in working hard is to "buy" my goof off time. I just can't seem to get away if their are tasks waiting to be done or a client needs my attention. I like to think of it as professionalism but it can get old real fast without some time for exercise or a short vacation. Recharging the old batteries is a must. Good nutrition and adequate sleep are important too as well as good hydration. I enjoy simple neighborhood walks, waving at friendly others and admiring their dogs. Being in the shadow of the beautiful Sierra Mountains doesn't hurt either and in good weather I'm hiking with the best of them. Covid has had its effects but I still managed to get out and about on foot.
In the midst of this tax season though seeing some light at the end of the tunnel, I took a 3 day hiatus. I'd be lying if I claimed to have unplugged and my cell phone records prove the point, but I did get a nice freedom with some weight lifting off my shoulders. Some days are filled with lots and lots of communication and some that can be ugly stuff. But just those 3 days gave me the renewed energy to get back in the saddle.
Life is not one thing but many and it gets bigger as you add more activities. I choose my off work activities with some care and don't waste my time on goofs or goofy things...well, a little goofy stuff can be fun at times but not as a steady diet. And I never waste time on fools. Of course, my age has me for the most part sans children and I miss that. But the occasional road trip to visit is always a reward. Even long drives are pleasurable with changing scenery and anticipation of another shared good time. Indeed, such things keep us all going. So, if you enjoy work as I do, make sure to enjoy other things in life too. The old adage is that all work and no play makes Jack or Jill a dull person. True enough!
Best,
Donn Marier
DM-Your Own CFO