Disclosure: This week’s post isn’t about HR, leadership, or running a business. It’s about gratitude, appreciation, and the importance of not putting things off.
Last week, something unexpected happened that completely shifted the course of my week. It was one of those moments that remind you how fragile life is and how quickly everything can change. And in moments like that, I’m especially thankful to be a business owner where I own my time, and am able to pause and respond to life when it happens.
It was a typical Monday afternoon. I was at my desk when my phone rang, the caller ID showing the name of a family friend. My heart immediately began to race. My husband had left just an hour earlier to play Pickleball, and getting that call told me something bad had happened.
Thankfully, it wasn’t worst-case scenario, but it was still serious. My husband had broken his ankle, an ambulance was on its way, and I needed to meet him at the hospital.
Now, some might think, “It’s just a broken ankle.” But suddenly becoming immobile for 6–8 weeks changes everything. That day quickly shifted from business-as-usual to an evening in the ER and adjusting our plans. He had surgery on Friday and now with some metal plates and screws, he’s on the mend and a little more bionic.
Could it have been worse? Absolutely. And for that, I’m incredibly grateful. But it’s still a big (temporary) change for our family.
So what’s the point of sharing this? Here are a few things that have been top of mind for me this past week:
- Life can change in an instant.
Big or small, expected or sudden; things happen that redirect our days or even our lives. Don’t wait for the “right time” to enjoy the simple things. Be present. Be grateful. Move your body while you can. Take a deep breath and appreciate it.
- Do the thing.
Take the trip. Try the new restaurant. Walk the trail. Years ago, on a visit to New York, we told ourselves we’d visit the Twin Towers next time. Three days later, 9/11 happened, and that moment will always stick with me. This summer, I’m glad we took the trip as soon as school let out, celebrated my mom’s 70th with family, and soaked up as much “pool time” as we could before the accident.
- Appreciate the everyday things & the people who do them.
If you know us, you know my husband and I divide up the household duties. He’s the chef, grocery shopper, lawn guy, and so much more. Every week, he brings home flowers from his weekly shop. He carefully picks blooms and colors to fit the season or mood. I’ll admit it, I sometimes take that for granted. This week, I bought myself flowers. A way of saying thank you—to him, to myself, and to this messy, beautiful life we share.
Remember, life is full of interruptions. But even in the chaos, there’s beauty. There’s meaning. There’s love.
So go ahead, buy yourself the flowers. You deserve them!
