I spent my entire life working 60-80 hours per week, for no extra pay, and being so proud of my work ethic. I didn’t take vacations, hurried back from illnesses before I was ready (or came to work sick) and was very proud of my commitment and dedication. I worked in two different low-paying professions throughout my life because “I was making a difference” and “serving my community.”
If I could give any advice to young people today, I would say, “Don’t give your life away. Don’t be complicit in a lifestyle that always puts you last, and some noble cause first.” I’m not saying people should be selfish or self-centered, but to realize that people treat you the way you let them treat you, the way you encourage them to treat you, the way you direct them to treat you.
Your life is just as worthy if take time for yourself, your family, your friends, and set reasonable boundaries. It actually makes you a better person. You have more to give, because you haven’t been drained of your energy by an unbalanced life. Stand up and realized that living your own life is just as valuable, and that there are greater virtues than working hard and giving all.
I always thought that when I got to retirement age, there would be time to spend with family, to share good times with friends, to travel, to do all the things I never had time for before. Then I got sick, and realized my family is gone now, I never had the time to make deep, lasting friendships, I’m no longer able to travel, and I’m not able to do all those things I tucked-away until “later.”
For me, later isn’t coming. It is my one great regret in life.
