My kids are fun! I absolutely loved spending time with Alex and Maddie. We did some cool stuff and had awesome conversations. We watched movies, went to the pool, played tennis and golf, and so much more. Before sabbatical we would do that kind of stuff, but there was a big difference this summer… I was present. I was not looking at emails or worrying about what time I needed to be somewhere. I enjoyed everything so much more because I stayed in the moment. While easier said than done, I intend to stay present, even as the temptation to multitask creeps in.
Even good things are hard. The first week or so of sabbatical was a blur full of admirable intentions of doing all the things I did not have time for during a working week. I had not fully embraced the idea of rest as part of the sabbatical. When I was not moving or doing something ‘productive’ I felt as if I was not fully embracing this short reprieve from the grind. Challenging that mindset took some doing. I struggled at first with the quiet. Not having work to think about all the time left space to think about a lot of other things. I eventually settled in and came to appreciate this alternate universe, and I believe I might be a bit more laid back as a result.
I love my work! I truly missed being at MaxEx and seeing my team. I missed being creative and strategic. I missed the excitement of presenting a new idea or facilitating challenging and meaningful conversations. Stepping away reminded me why I stepped in for the past 16 years. We do important work. We do it well. I am returning refreshed and more energized to do even more than before. Watch out! 😊
This time was a gift. I get emotional every time I think about it. Having a team capable of keeping the wheels moving while I am gone for 90 days is a gift. Their willingness to adjust their summer to give me the break and space I needed was a gift. The grace my clients showed when I told them I was putting our journey on pause was a gift. The genuine support and care from those who know me well was a gift. Prioritizing my family was a gift for me and them. I will be forever grateful to everyone who made this possible.
On behalf of Kent, Alex, and Maddie… thank you for this gift.