By Bob Dorn, Publisher
Most columns for the month of December focus on the upcoming year and forecasts of things to come. “Get prepared” is usually the theme.
Needless to say, there are question marks posted throughout the 2008 forecasts for equipment managers. How will the new 2007 engines perform? What will the cost of fuel be in 2008? What should I be doing to prepare for the 2010 engines? Where will the qualified technicians come from? Can I keep up the pace to handle the new challenges 2008 will bring about? And the list could go on and on and on.
Rather than worrying about these complex issues, why not use this special season of the year to find respite, which as defined in the dictionary as “a delay or cessation for a time, especially of anything distressing or trying; an interval of relief.”
This is the time of year we all need to concentrate on the most important things in our lives –– family and friends. The holidays are all focused on spending time with the ones we value and with whom we want to share the holiday experience.
Time always appears to go by at a more rapid pace as the years pass us by. How many times have you said, “It’s December already. Boy, does time fly.”
I would suggest that as the holidays approach, and most of us will get a few extra days off, so why not put the work clock on hold. Perhaps it is time to take stock of the year that has just passed and be reminded of the good things in your life.
The medical profession has documented the detrimental effects of stress on both of our mental health and physical well being. One of the ways to reduce the level of stress is to change things in our personal lifestyle. Balancing the needs of work and family is a good place to start. Also having a sense of purpose and getting enough sleep are things that are stress relievers.
Sometimes we need to back away from our daily work schedule and take an inventory of what “is” going to happen to us in 2008 if we don’t take care of family and ourselves. I just couldn’t talk anymore about the challenges we face during the holiday season.
Taking a “respite” could just be the opportunity you need to gather strength for the challenges of the coming year.
Don’t worry about 2008 just yet. Happy Holidays to you, your business team, associates and your family.
