Where I’m At Right Now
I read an article by Ben Read today – Running on empty?
Take a look at the article. The title alone resonated with me. Honestly, I’m exhausted, and I’m feeling depleted.
I’ve been working hard at my job. We’re in the middle of the annual performance management process. I have ten direct reports requiring my evaluation, but I’m also involved in lending input on others in my department and in my office. I care deeply about my team members, and I want this process to be meaningful for them and for their careers. This is happening while I’m still handling the normal activities and interruptions of my job.
I’ve five weeks into a twelve week strength training program, and I’ve worked out nearly every day for the past 33 days. The workouts have been beneficial. I can see the results. I’ve been working on my legs and abs, my back and biceps, and my chest, shoulders, and triceps. And I’ve been taking a different approach to my cardio. Most mornings I’m up at 4AM and out the door by 4:30AM on the way to the gym. Sometimes I work out at lunch if I have a shorter workout scheduled.
My son, Isaac, started a job a few weeks ago at Chick-Fil-A. He works until closing three days a week, and he doesn’t have his driver’s license yet. This means I’m out three nights a week to pick him up. I’m so thankful for my son and his job. And I’m thankful for the quiet moments in the car on the way home as we quietly talk about a few things as we travel the dark, windy roads back to our house.
I’m in the middle of another challenge I can’t mention here. But I can tell you that it sucks a fair amount of emotional and mental energy out of me.
I’m half-way through my three month Stretch Man Mastermind group, and I’m happy to say that it has been going amazingly well. The interactions with the members of the group have been thought-provoking and truly stretching. Every two weeks, we get together, and I teach on a relevant topic for 10-15 minutes before we dive into an issue one of us is facing. Last night, I prepared the teaching time for our next call.
I’m involved in Toastmasters. I’m the Area Director for five clubs, and I’m trying to keep pace with my club. I signed up to give my next speech at our next club meeting which takes place next Wednesday. For those of you familiar with Toastmasters, I’m two speeches away from earning my ACB (Advanced Communicator Bronze) milestone. I had to say “No” last weekend when one of the District Officers asked me to help out with an upcoming conference. I stink at saying “No.”
I’ve been on the go every weekend for the past few months. There is always something on my calendar on Saturday. I haven’t been home for more than a few hours on the weekend for a while.
I could go on.
I’m over-involved. I’m worn out. And it’s easy to see why just looking at my thoughts above.
Maybe it’s time for a break.
Ben Reed’s article was a reminder that I need to make time to fill my tank. I need to take time to rest, relax, and recharge. And I need to learn to say “No.” I can’t do everything. And I want to do it well. But I can’t do anything well when my tank is empty, and I can’t do many things well when I try to do everything.
My wife, Leanne, is a wise woman. She asked me tonight, “What recharges you?”
I’m still thinking about the response to her question.
I know my annual Memorial Day Weekend Camping trip with a few of my buddies recharges me, but this is 8 months away. I think it’s time for me to ponder this question and to take time to follow through on my response.
This is where I’m at right now. Just thought I’d share.
What’s the condition of your “gas tank”? What recharges you? Share your thoughts in the comments.