[SEPTEMBER 13, 2022 – BLOG] A few years ago, I was running through the Chicago airport after my flight was delayed, trying to make a connection to get back to Austin. While racing by the gates with my heart beating faster and faster, I had the Alabama song, “I’m in a Hurry” blasting through my head. If you’re not familiar with this number one hit released in 1992, it starts like this:
“I’m in a hurry to get things done
Oh, I rush and rush until life’s no fun
All I really gotta do is live and die
But, I’m in a hurry and don’t know why”
These words rang true to me then and now. In our hurry, do we think we’re getting things done, but really ignoring the bigger strategic issues? Sometimes it is comforting to check off the daily “to do” list and call it a successful day. That is great, but taking time to research, organize and dream about the bigger strategies will set you up for long-term stability. Slowing down and taking those extra steps may set you apart from the crowds of people running through airports and life.
To begin, I recommend starting a list of bigger life issues, strategic career paths and your hopes for your family, as well as your business endeavors. I find it helpful to collaborate with colleagues, friends and trusted advisers. Nothing is worse than being caught completely off guard and unprepared for what may be inevitable, if you take the extra time to think it through.
It can be eye-opening and lead to milestones in your career and in your own personal journey, both of which are important.
Working hard to slow down,
Gay Gaddis
Founder. Author. Artist. Trailblazer.
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