In recent years I have intentionally shifted my reading away from books to articles. Without a doubt, the wisdom from James Clear has become my top source. But coming in a strong second place is content from Robert Glazer. Originally best known for his famous TED Talk on abolishing the two week’s notice, Glazer now pushes out quality writing every week. 

Eight years ago, Glazer posted what has become his most highly engaged with idea. The thought was simple; By the time that kids reach the age of 18, parents have already spent about 93% of their lifetime’s in-person parent time. Due to this, each parent would do well to use the fleeting time wisely. 

Recently I’ve been thinking a lot about Glazer’s “18 Summers” idea. And while it pertains specifically to parents and children, the same concept can be applied to managers and the workplace.

18 Work Summers

In the workplace it can be easy to focus so much on what needs to be done while missing the blessings of today. Managers fall especially prey to this. Financial factors, customer concerns, employee engagement…it feels like there’s much more to be done than time to do it. Often, stress and overwhelm can even set in.

Producing quality work while displaying stewardship are musts for elite level managers. But similar to parenting, leaders must be careful not to miss the forest for the trees.

When I think back over my work from 5 or 10 years ago, I am grateful for giving my absolute best. Otherwise, who’s to say where I would be now! But beyond the work results, I think most fondly back to past employees who I had the pleasure of leading.

Take Tawny, who led as the full-time Assistant GM helping to oversee 80 employees while also juggling student teaching. Or Aaron, who came in as a guy looking for a part-time hourly job and now is a police officer, husband, and dad. Or Jared, who was the GOAT at asking how he could best support me every single day. Or Josh, who two weeks ago was promoted to manage his own Chick-fil-A location. This list goes on and on.

That’s all in the past. But today, Kylie, Rhett, Samantha, Sam, Sarah, Des, Garrett, Ryan Leyton, and many more leaders/employees are here, eager to grow and reach their career goals. One day, each of them will be gone. It’s imperative to enjoy today’s relationships and today’s opportunities, while they are still here. Often all it takes is to slow down, engage, and even have some good ole fashioned fun!

In Closing

Are you slowing down enough to appreciate today’s blessings? In the future, will you look back with contentment on how you led today? Are you having fun and enjoying the ride?