After a long and somewhat frustrating work week, last Saturday I decided it was time to tear out two overgrown bushes in the front yard. My wife had commented that we have the worst landscaping in the neighborhood. I’m not sure that’s true, but we’re definitely in the running.
It would have been easy enough to call someone, but doing things around the house is one of the ways I decompress. It was hot, but I was outside away from my phone and laptop. I cut away the branches, dug around the roots cutting a few of them with a root saw, and then wrapped a tow strap around what was left and pulled out the root balls with the Jeep. After I finished, I was physically tired but mentally refreshed. The front of the house definitely looks better but needs some new plantings. For that part, I’m calling a professional.
There are of course, many ways to clear your mind but everyone needs a “go to” activity to put their work or personal troubles aside so that when they return to them they can do so with a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of purpose.
When I was growing up, I worked with someone who said, “Sometimes, you just have to cut boards.” Building something was his way of clearing his mind.
I know people who hunt. I have no moral objection to hunting but have no desire to hang out in the woods (often in the cold and rain) waiting for some defenseless animal to cross my path.
Some golf. Although I know many who seem to come off the golf course more frustrated than when they went on. For me, it’s too time consuming.
Others cycle or ride motorcycles. I’ve done a bit of both over the years but neither is my go to at the moment.
Whatever your method, everyone needs some way to escape and clear their mind so they can reengage with their work with a fresh perspective and a renewed sense of purpose. And sometimes, solutions to problems occur to us when we’re not actively thinking about the issue. It’s another benefit of stepping back.
As we approach the July 4th holiday weekend (I suspect some have already started by the time they receive this) it’s a good time to reflect on the first half of the year and come back to the second half reenergized.
Wishing everyone a happy 4th of July. Take some time to both think about the meaning of the holiday as well as clear your mind. If you have a spare moment, drop me a note. I’d love to hear what you do to get away from it all.
If your business could benefit from fractional CFO services, I would welcome the chance to speak with you. Please give me a call at (314) 863-6637 or send an email to [email protected]
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your cash is flowing. know where.®
Ken Homza
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