Is Phoenix on your bingo card?
2 minute read
When I woke up this morning, I did not have “Visit Phoenix, Arizona” on my bingo card. Especially this close to Summer, when temperatures are over 100 degrees F.
No, I had “drink coffee,” “play with cats,” “work on my site,” “meet with team members,” and so on.
At 9:50 am, a text: “Water just broke.”
I immediately booked a flight, packed a bag, and flew to Phoenix to be near my daughter and her husband for the birth of their first child.
We know the tech world changes rapidly: directions change, requirements change, schedules change, and (of course) lives change.
One moment, you’re working on a ticket and then suddenly you learn your role has been eliminated.
One moment, you’re trying to figure out your workday. In the next, you’re planning a quick trip into the high desert.
One moment, you’re trying to solve a thorny problem and the next thing you know, you’re in the hospital getting an EKG.
It’s cliche to say that “Change happens,” but that doesn’t change the simple reality that change really is the only constant.
We talk a lot about “work/life balance.” And it’s really easy to get caught up in the corporate drama.
Don’t lose sight of the real moments in life. In a few years, which will you remember most? The temporary success of some business objective…or the family member you supported when they needed you? Which will you value most? Seems like an easy answer to me.
If you’re in an environment where family is not the easy answer, get out. ASAP. Find a role where families are factored into the priorities, no matter what. Find leadership that tells you to do whatever you need in order to protect and care for your own.
Yes, there are times when you need to make a tough call. But family should always be an easy call. Especially in the unexpected moments of change and import.
A lot of companies claim integrity as a corporate value. The truth of that commitment is revealed in the behavior of their leaders and managers.
If they don’t walk the talk, especially when it’s hard, they don’t have integrity. They don’t have your back…and they shouldn’t benefit from your time, energy, passion, or creativity.
That’s my take. Your mileage may vary.
Vital statistics
- First post: 11 June 2024