Lately, I’ve found myself feeling down and distracted, despite our business thriving and being on an upward trajectory. It’s not the business itself that’s the issue, but rather personal distractions that have been weighing heavily on my mind.
One significant challenge is the change in my wife Caryn’s professional life. When she was fully involved in our business, we had the luxury of spending weekends together and she often accompanied me on business trips. Now, with her new job, I feel a growing distance between us. My friend and confidant isn’t as available as I need her to be. Yes, I realize it sounds selfish, but I miss our time together. She enjoys her new role, embracing the responsibilities and managing the occasional conflicts. Her job does have extended hours and weekend commitments have taken away our Saturday mornings, which used to be dedicated to us.
Another distraction comes from my family in South Africa. I miss them dearly and feel the weight of tension within the family, especially with my eldest brother going through a separation after 19 years of marriage. I wish I could support him more, but being here while he’s there leaves me questioning if I’m being selfish with my own needs.
Then there’s my dad, a truly remarkable man. The reality that I might only see him a few more times in his lifetime is hard to bear. I feel a mix of guilt and concern, and I long to have him visit me in North Carolina, though the long trip is daunting for him. Balancing these personal concerns while steering a successful business is challenging. Here are strategies that can help manage these distractions, drawing from Dale Carnegie’s timeless wisdom:
From How to Stop Worrying and Start Living:
- Live in Day-tight Compartments: Carnegie suggests focusing on today rather than being overwhelmed by the past or future. By dealing with each day’s challenges as they come, I can reduce stress and maintain a clearer perspective on both personal and professional fronts.
- Cooperate with the Inevitable: Accepting the changes in Caryn’s schedule and finding new ways to connect can help alleviate feelings of distance. Instead of dwelling on lost time, I can create new routines that fit our current lifestyle.
- Put a “Stop-Loss” on your worries: Addressing minor issues before they become major problems is crucial. Regular check-ins with Caryn and my family can help prevent small concerns from escalating into significant stressors.
From How to Win Friends and Influence People:
- Show Genuine Interest: By taking a keen interest in Caryn’s new job and supporting her growth, I can strengthen our bond despite her busy schedule. Sharing in her successes and challenges makes her feel valued and understood.
- Give Honest and Sincere Appreciation: Acknowledging the efforts and sacrifices my family members make can foster a supportive environment. Expressing gratitude for their understanding and patience helps maintain strong relationships.
- Talk in Terms of the Other Person’s Interests: Understanding my brother’s perspective and offering empathetic support, even from a distance, can make a significant difference. Being a good listener and providing thoughtful advice when needed shows my commitment to his well-being.
Balancing these principles can help navigate the personal distractions affecting my professional life. It’s a reminder that even amidst professional success, our personal lives profoundly impact our sense of well-being. The key is finding a balance and addressing these distractions, not by ignoring them but by embracing and managing them as part of our journey.