Why do easy decisions have to be so hard sometimes? And really, they’re not hard. Except they are.

Eat, Eat, Repeat

This week started with a winter solstice dinner (Dongzhi) at home. The next day, we met up for lunch with a friend who was visiting from out of town, had a short play date with a cousin, and caught The Rise of Skywalker. The week continued with more play dates, dropping off Christmas gifts, and two separate holiday dinner parties (no turkey at either one!)… plus family dim sum on Boxing Day.

It’s been a very busy week, in terms of meals and family gatherings. It hasn’t been nearly as busy a week, though, in terms of work and productivity. And that’s okay.

Or, at least it should be.

A Real Holiday Season?

As we headed into the tail end of 2019, I saw that a financial goal was within grasp. If I just hustled a little more these last two weeks, I should reach it. And, well, I feel because I can be working, I should be working. Then, I didn’t. Not only did I not work nearly as much as I had planned, I didn’t really post much on social media this week either.

Yes, I thanked the other dads and shared a childish observation, but I mostly put my phone away for those holiday get-togethers. I “lived in the moment,” so to speak, rather than seeking out IG-worthy opportunities. This was a strange but welcome feeling for me, especially as someone who is used to being “on” 24/7.

Realistically, this week has been day off self-sabotage on overdrive, fueled by family obligations and holiday FOMO.

Now, don’t get me wrong. While I use the word “obligations” in this context, I do want to spend more time with my immediate and extended family. And my friends. Choosing to spend more time with loved ones is supposed to be one of the easiest decisions you can make, isn’t it? This time is invaluable and should take priority over work. Then, why was choosing not to work so hard?

Fair Trade, Easy Decision?

In the end, I did decide to trade dollars for hours. And those hours, particularly these special holiday hours, are far more valuable than any incremental increase in income may represent. You’ve got to focus on what’s truly important, right?

Tell me, did you work this week? Was that a conscious decision?