In over 25 years, my job has always been more than a “job”.
I’ve loved the work.
The people.
The companies I work for.
I lean in.
I read books and take classes on topics I’m less familiar with.
I work long hours – early in the morning, in the evening, on the weekend, on vacations.
To many of you, this likely sounds familiar.
In the past, I didn’t mind because I felt I was following my passions.
I would tell others that work was my hobby.
That I genuinely loved the work.
Which I did.
These days, I’ve changed my perspective.
My Perspective NOW
These days, I’ve realized that I was giving, giving, giving.
Building other companies and brands yet starving my own.
I was not acting like a Me-EO.
I had lost my own identity in the flurry of titles and company associations.
I had narrowed the 8 dimensions of wellbeing to occupational and financial.
At the expense of the other six –
Physical, social, environmental, spiritual, intellectual, and emotional.
I plowed through the weeks and struggled to catch up on the weekends.
My Story
Looking back, I can now see that I started to develop my Me-EO mindset about 15 years ago.
In 2010, the first little steps were taken, and seeds were planted.
I see a second stairstep in about 2015.
And five years later….2020…we all know how that had us reflecting on life and what’s next.
Today, I have a lot more growth ahead of me, yet I’m solidly positioned as the Me-EO.
I see how the decisions I make affect all 8 dimensions of wellbeing.
I’m more intentional.
I still love the work I do and prioritize high quality output.
What is different is that I have it in perspective.
I do jobs in exchange for payment.
This is a contract.
Each contract has expectations and I only want the ones that fit my criteria.
In addition, this new perspective gives me space in my life for something other than my occupation.
Time with family & friends.
Side jobs.
Activities around the house.
Passion projects.
Volunteering.
I’m clear on my goals.
They may change and that’s OK, but I know what they are right now.
I’ve done the work to understand what it takes to make the goals a reality.
Leaning in just like I do with my work – learning new things and changing as a result.
I’m a work in progress.
At least now, I’m confident that I’m a Me-EO in progress.
Your Turn
Does your wellbeing wheel tip stronger to the occupational lane?
What areas are struggling as a result?
Do you feel like a Me-EO in charge of your life?