Last week I was in Colorado with friends…our annual trip filled with some outdoor adventures, a little retail therapy, and way too many yummy dinners out. Work doesn’t stop just because I relocate for a few days, but it also doesn’t require me to be parked in any one place to get things done. So, I would spend a few hours on calls in the morning, and get into some mischief in the afternoons. One day Lori and I found ourselves lazily floating down a river talking, laughing and soaking in the sunshine. Work in the morning. Play in the afternoon. Both mattered.
We’ve been sold a myth that “balance” means neatly dividing our time between work and life, like some perfect equation, as if there is something magical about 9 – 5 (or, 8 – 6, or whatever the “standard” is where you work). But balance isn’t math… it's a bit more of an art. It’s knowing when to lean in and when to let go.
And letting go matters. There is a Dutch term called “niksen” – the art of doing nothing. Neuroscience shows that when we let our minds relax, creativity increases (Time). But more importantly, connecting with friends and doing fun things sparks joy. And, joy, it turns out, can quite literally save your life. (Psychology Today) by boosting immune function, reducing stress, and strengthening relationships.
Meanwhile, CEOs are busy dialing back flexibility and doubling down on control (Axios). But control doesn’t inspire. Connection does. Joy does. And in a so-called “perfect storm” moment for leadership (FT), maybe the bravest move is to stop clinging to control and start creating space for flow.
So, here’s my nudge: find your river. Whatever that looks like for you. And if someone wants to insist you need to have your butt in a particular seat at a particular time, remind them you’re actually boosting creativity, health, and resilience.
Anyone want to play hooky??
