Well, November was fabulous. I survived a massive lawsuit and depositions, Jack and I went to Anna Maria Island for a beautiful week in the sun (we got a stellar deal on a house a block from the beach with its own pool. I suddenly became a Bob Marley fan on that vacation), and I've been rather happy lately.
Did I just say the "H" word? Holy cats! Reminds me of that 90's movie, "French Kiss." One of the greasy Frenchmen says, "when people say they are happy, my arse begins to twitch." LOL.
But Anna Maria was phenomenal. The Edge came down for a few days and while she and I sat by our own pool, Jack took sailing lessons. Our largest decision of the day was, "pool or beach first?" And the second decision was, "wine spritzer or diet coke!?" Jack became known as "Captain Jack" because of his innate sailing skillz. He took me out on Tampa Bay in a Trimeran (sp?), a small sailboat that he steered with ropes.
Ropes. We're splashing through 5 foot waves on Tampa Bay, probably going 20 mph (really fast when you're scared!) and I didn't die!! My knuckles were stiff from holding onto the boat so tight and I must admit that I knelt down and kissed the beach when he dropped me off at the pier. He crossed off two bucket list items by learning to sail and then taking me sailing. I crossed off a bucket list item by not dying!
I liken my white-knuckled sailing to life at work. Work is never going to be easy. But compared to how I felt a few months (years?) ago, things are markedly better. I don't have to hold on, white-knuckled, anymore. Corporate bureaucracy is always going to erect obstacles. Personalities and egos are always going to delay progress. And it's my primary job to make people want to be the best versions of themselves.
My role as a manager of managers makes me reflect on management this time of year. I have eleven performance evaluations to still complete but this year, I am not dreading them. Instead, I now LIKE having those conversations with my employees. I like stretching them, challenging them. I want them to excel and even surpass me; that's the best sign of strong coaching.
Maybe I'm becoming part of the "establishment." Maybe I'm just being overtaken by a sense of joy and patience that is bigger than myself. I am making an intentional effort this Advent to let some patience permeate my daily existence.
[C'mon, you road rage too, right? That's what I'm trying to stop. Even if I'm nicer on the road, I will contribute to a positive Christmas spirit.]
[Have you MET the Chicago drivers?! The highways around here are the last Christian frontier.]
So while I haven't blogged lately, things are still moving forward. Finals week is in full gear and while it could be a mistake, I signed up for TWO classes in the spring. Time to get a move on and finish this degree program!
If I somehow don't check in between now and then, have a terrific Christmas season. Celebrate with light, joy, and patience!
No comments:
Post a Comment