#Positively Stressed
Steve’s Hiatus
I have heard some people say they believe that the idea of a work life balance is fiction, the stuff of fairytales. I suppose if you have never known anything different you might believe that. I’m sure we all know a workaholic who we would love to see take a vacation, or even a break. It is sometimes difficult to see our friends or co-workers do that to themselves. The idealization of self-sacrifice in the workplace is a detriment to each and every one of us.
It is that mentality that I have strived so hard to avoid, the idea that self-sacrifice, for the sake of the employer, is what makes a good employee. A deceitful employer would have you believe that. So, take the time you need for yourself or for what you care about. There is nothing selfish about taking back your time, and if your boss tries to tell you otherwise, maybe it’s time for a new boss.
So why am I saying this? Some of you have reached out wondering what happened to Steve and #PositivelyStressed. I’d like to satisfy your curiosity and quell any worry. Steve was in need of a hiatus, and there is nothing wrong with that. We write these blog posts because we enjoy it, and we believe that they have the potential to bring positive change. However, when I gave Steve a call to check in, it was obvious he needed to step away.
As we talked it became clear just how busy life had gotten for Steve. Work picking up, being a father, maintaining relationships, and showing up for others. Even when I asked about him taking a break his initial response was “Well, I do have a rough draft, I could try and get that ready for Friday.” As we talked, I offered to write this post in lieu of him bending over backwards to have his post ready. I’m glad he took me up on that offer.
It is important to practice what we preach. Steve has talked about exactly that fact in some of his posts. But, you know, as well as I do, that sometimes the most difficult advice to follow is your own, and what might be even more difficult than that, is being self-aware enough to see it in ourselves when we need a break. That’s why being open with friends and loved ones is important. We need each other to look out for one another.
Steve, thank you for making the time for that phone call, albeit short. I hope you have taken the time you need for yourself and your family, and I hope that work calms down for you soon. I’m excited about your return but please take the time you need.
To the rest of you lovely readers, thank you. It truly means the world to me to see your support. Thank you for your understanding as we try and figure out how to flex this into our daily lives. Thank you for believing in Feronus.
