Balance is Key
Balance is key in being able to manage all the tasks we handle, day in and out. As the list of tasks continues to grow, the realization that I haven't played one of my favorite sports in a very long time hits home. Tennis was my escape about two years ago, after discovering that I could play with an extremely patient tennis instructor and motivating coworker. Learning to play tennis after 40 was much easier than anticipated. This was more than likely due to the fact that the instructor was a professional player from Ecuador. He certainly had his work cut out for him.
Twice a week, this instructor showed up for our lesson, and subsequently suffered the consequences of training two physical therapists who were used to analyzing movement and perfecting a technique before moving on to another lesson. What was realized during this time was the science behind the sport, as well as the amount of proper training that was needed to play recreationally.
This recreational sport left quite an impression on the two of us, as we discussed the necessity of ice to her foot and my hip the next day. In the summer sun of South Florida, from 9 until 10 am, covered in SPF 100 sunscreen, we physically and mentally prepared for our shift at work, from 12 to 8:30 pm. To this day, we have a better understanding of our patients' tennis addictions and injuries, and consequently their rehabilitation, as well the game itself.
Recently I discovered a neighbor is taking tennis lessons, and through a neighborhood meeting this past weekend, the stir of excitement in my head and heart overcame me. After talking to my clinical manager this afternoon, being most honest (I am the worst liar), I asked to leave early to play tennis with a neighbor; not to work on my doctoral studies, but to play tennis.
After an exhausting rally, and surprising back-spins and slices, here I sit with ice on my hip again. What a great feeling. Perfect time to relax and listen to the final lecture in pharmacology, "Drugs Used in Heart Failure," which happens to be only 25 minutes long. I feel a great night's sleep coming on afterward, followed by a 6 a.m. event at work on my usual day off, to thank employees for meeting customer-service goals. Great service deserves great thanks!
Focus on what your goals are, find out what other gifts you have to offer, but find the time to take care of yourself, even if it requires ice afterwards. After all, balance is key in the big picture.
How do you balance your life and professional career?