By Bernard Freeman
Don’t let too much personal value become tied up in your work
Thankfully, old ideas about pursuing a career at all costs have become outdated.
We now know that stress from these situations can be incredibly damaging to men’s health. Still, this stereotype of the ego-driven work horse developed for a reason: Too often men still fall victim to this dangerous cycle where the work/life balance tips in the wrong direction.
They’re no longer typically the sole breadwinners, however, as more and more women have moved into the workplace. That’s made it easier than ever to move past a life dominated by the suit, tie and briefcase. Stay-at-home dads are on the rise, and hybrid work models have allowed spouses to become more present.
A NEW PARADIGM
A pair of unforeseen setbacks, 2008’s Great Recession and 2020’s COVID-19 pandemic, helped galvanize ideas around a new paradigm where the meaning of what we do matters more than the money. Working at the expense of personal goals made less sense when the economy could fall apart with such sudden force, or a coronavirus could infect and ultimately kill so many.
Fulfillment, family time and health became more important. Resignations followed by the millions, as people completely reconfigured the role of work in their lives. Men were nudged down a new path, away from the office and toward things that bolstered their sense of well-being.
TIME TO DISCONNECT
Focusing less on work has often meant less time with internet-connected devices, with important emotional and physical benefits. Isolation and anxiety can give way to more grounded activities, including exercise, time spent with family and friends, starting a new hobby or joining a new group. Finding common purpose with others yields huge rewards, and finding that your hopes, dreams and worries are reflected back by others can lead to a growing sense of self-worth.
NEW AND BETTER HABITS
Challenge yourself to find a new rhythm, even if you can’t afford to quit your job – or aren’t allowed the luxury of hybrid or remote work schedules. Create a new and better habit every day, whether that’s exercising, listening to music, reading, prayer or meditation. Make it a point to talk to friends and family – really talk, not just texting. Small moments will ultimately grow into a lifetime of trust and emotional support. Those relationships were always your true legacy, not whatever you accomplished from 9-to-5 on weekdays.
