Saturday, June 25, 2011

Work/Life Balance...or Not

I'm on a vacation of sorts.  I'm away from the office until the middle of next week, but it doesn't completely feel that way.  I've already been on the phone, scheduled meetings, hammered through a bunch of emails, and texted back and forth with my team.  One might think I haven't really gotten away from it all yet.  


It Comes With the Territory
Now you could say that because I'm in a job that has a fair amount of responsibility it is just normal.  I am not a punch-the-clock type guy...nor do I want to be.  I've had the privilege of being in leadership positions for many years, and working while being away is not anything unique anymore...it's normal. It may be the same for you. What once seemed like an intrusion is now something I appreciate...the organization relies on me to come through regardless of where I happen to be at the time.  I like that.

My Employees Don't Have My Job

The potential problem with this  scenario is in my hands.  While I may be expected to be available 24/7, my employees are not.  They don't have my job, and they shouldn't feel as if they should be ready to jump in at a moment's notice.  I have to make sure I don't treat them as if they are at my beck and call.  They're not.  


How About You
Do you have a love/hate relationship with your scope of responsibility?  Being available doesn't mean you don't have balance in your life.  But it does mean you may have to redefine how you manage that balance.  What about your team?  Do you expect them to be available as much as you are?  How do you find that elusive balance?


I'd love to hear from you.


No Excuses.




pic courtesy of ceohomebusiness

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