Beauty and Intentionality
This morning, my wife and I were treated to a breathtaking sunrise that felt like God’s own masterpiece. The air was just the right temperature, and the colors in the sky were nothing short of spectacular. As I stood there, captivated by the beauty unfolding before me, I couldn’t help but ponder: why don’t we take more time to intentionally savor such moments of beauty?
Just the other day, I was on a training ride on my mountain bike, tackling a particularly grueling climb. My legs were burning, my lungs felt like they were on fire, and I was momentarily questioning my life choices. Then, out of nowhere, a magnificent monarch butterfly flitted into my line of sight, gracefully keeping pace with me as I struggled up the hill (though, let’s be honest, at my speed, it wasn’t much of a challenge for the butterfly! 😊). The butterfly danced alongside me for a fleeting moment before veering off to my left, disappearing from view. As I continued pedaling, I was struck by a profound realization: beauty is all around us; we often miss it because we’re too focused on other things.
The author's artistic Canva recreation of his morning view(because I don't take my phone) ...I don't think we saw a golden retriever, but it would have been cool if we had.
The Work-Life Balance Dilemma
In the 1930s, the brilliant economist John Maynard Keynes speculated that technological advancements could pave the way for a 15-hour workweek by 2030. While Keynes was undoubtedly a visionary, I believe he may have underestimated the complexities of our relationship with technology. Instead of liberating us, it often seems to tether us more closely to our work, distracting us from what truly matters.
Personally, I’ve found great relief in stepping back from social media and establishing boundaries with my phone. By putting my device to bed well before I do and resisting the urge to check it until my wife and I have shared our morning devotional and walk, I’ve reclaimed precious moments of connection and clarity.
Culture, Work, and What Matters Most
Lately, I’ve delved into cultural theories that suggest societies shaped by harsh winters tend to be more task-oriented, while those in warmer climates often prioritize relationships. This resonates with my experiences in South Asia and the Middle East, where the emphasis on community and connection is palpable. I believe work is essential; we were created to engage in it. Yet, it’s all too easy to let the urgent drown out the important. As leaders, we must regularly reflect on what truly matters to us and ensure our schedules align with those priorities.
A Call to Action for Leaders
So, leaders, I pose this question to you: What is most important in your life, and does your schedule truly reflect those values?