A few months ago, when I was planning a lengthy business trip and rushing around the house trying to get everything done like a maniac, my husband Ted said something that has stuck in my mind…"don’t forget about us."
After thirty years of working, I am still trying to do it all. I am often asked how I get it all done, and I just smile because I know that I will never get it all done! I still struggle with finding that balance every day. I know it’s about setting priorities, but there are days when no matter how hard I try, it just doesn’t come together. Maybe it’s the eternal optimist in me, but I haven’t given up on trying to do it all.
This past week, we had a special treat – Ted and I went to New York to surprise Allison for her birthday. She was absolutely thrilled and it was great to be together as a family. Earlier in the day, when Ted and I were having lunch by ourselves, I pulled out my Blackberry to check a few messages. I could see the disappointment in Ted’s face and realized that I was taking time away from “us.” In my heart, I know that my family is my number one priority, but sometimes I take them for granted.
And so, when I saw Ted’s expression, it was a great reminder to stop checking messages for a minute, enjoy the moment and to remember “us.” When we are together, it is our time and it should be cherished (and treated like those urgent messages I am always checking on). My inbox may always be full, but my life is full too. Even when things go awry, my family is my rock and at the end of the day, I am still wife, mother, daughter, sister and friend to those who are dearest to me.
Barbara
By blogger Barbara Adachi, Deloitte LLP
