I’m Taking My Christmas Break Early

I’ve realized that some of the best times in my life come when things are in balance. It is in the times when I have meaning and purpose behind the steps of my days that I feel the most fulfilled.

My best schedule starts with a good night of rest followed by an early morning cup of coffee, Norah Jones playing and time spent reading and writing. I know what to expect out of my work day before I ever arrive at work - I’ve thought through my day the day or night before and have plans already in place for what I’m going to work on. I keep my email closed, except for a few pre-scheduled times that I allow myself to open it up and work through my emails quickly. I actually take my lunch (which, unfortunately, is more of the exception than a rule these days) - doubly-blessed if I get to spend it with my wife. I leave work on time (or a little early, since I normally get to work a little early) and then enjoy the food, conversation, and laughter with the family at the dinner table. I spend some time with the kids - either coloring and reading, building with K’Nex and Legos, helping out with various homework, or playing Guitar Hero. I tuck all the kids in bed, hug and kiss them and pray over them. Then I finish off my day talking or watching a movie with my beautiful bride.

It may seem pie-in-the-sky but there are certainly times in the past year where I enjoyed my best days like this with consistency. And then there are times when those plans seem extremely far-fetched.

I have to admit that I’ve been in a time of unrest recently - not in a disconcerted way, but rather in a plan-less way. My mornings look different from day to day, I get to work early, work hard, skip lunch, and then checkout late. I’m exhausted by the time I get home and I’m afraid my family doesn’t get the best of me.

It isn’t as dire as it sounds (at least I hope not). The truth is that I feel out of balance and that unrest weighs on me.

So I’m deciding to begin my Christmas break early. I still have a week of work until I can completely check-out for the holidays, but I’m starting this weekend with plan and purpose. I’m committing to aligning my days once again so that when I am able to be off of work for vacation I’ve already done what it takes to get into the sweet spot again so that I can completely enjoy the time I get to spend with my family.

Posted 12.13.2008

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