As
the busy-ness of fall blows into the workplace with gale-force winds,
the following anecdote offers a reminder of the importance of life-work
balance.
A
professor was giving a presentation to business leaders at an associate
meeting. He raised a glass of water and asked the audience, "How heavy
do you think this glass of water is?"
The responses ranged from 20g to 50g.
The
professor replied, "It does not matter the absolute weight. What
matters is the length of time you have to hold it. If I hold it for a
minute, it's fine. If I hold it for an hour, I'll have an ache in my
arm. If I hold it for a day, you'll have to get me medical attention!
It is the exact same absolute weight in each case, yet the longer I hold it the heavier it becomes."
Work is the
same way. By carrying the burden of our ever-growing 'to do' lists
around with us all week, they weigh heavily on us. We need some time
allotted to put down our lists - evenings, weekends, days off - in
order to be refreshed and pick up the proverbial glass once more.
Individual Challenge:
Allot time to put your own glass down. That means not only not working
but also giving yourself permission not to even think about it. Best of
luck!
