Work and Family: The Right Balance

When I hear a parent, particularly a father who has been a workaholic for the better part of his adult life, commit to spending more time with his family, I am suspect for a number of reasons. First of all, I am a father who has always put my family first. I know how much time, effort, and commitment goes into that. It is hard for me to conceive of a coach, a businessman, or a celebrity some 45 or 50 years of age, all of a sudden making time for his family after working nearly 24/7 on his profession. Doing that midstream requires almost a total makeover in one’s priorities. I guess it is possible, but unlikely. Also, how many teen-age children are going to suddenly make time for their dad, especially one whom they hardly know?
According to many surveys, striking a balance between work and one’s job is perhaps the number one diversity issue confronting employees today. As a father, I remember beginning my career as an instructor at a community college. Shortly thereafter, my wife gave birth to our first child, a son with a severe disability. As he got older, I was torn. How much time do I put into work and how much time do I spend at home? I came to realize my wife had no such choice. I also came to realize the truth in something my pastor said a long time ago. She mentioned that she had talked to many people on their deathbeds. Not once did she ever hear, “I wish I had spent more time at work.”
Spending quality time with my family, and always being there for them is something I have always made my number one priority. If you are faced with a similar choice, choose family if at all possible. It will make all the difference in the world. It has for me.