Reality check…

When I choose where I spend my time, I choose powerfully, without regret – and I coach myself regularly on what (and who) is really important.

My first job when I left university was with IBM in New York. We worked pretty long hours.

A friend of mine who had a graduate job for Arthur Anderson consulting in Australia was coming to the US for his ‘induction’. He was passing through New York for the weekend, but alas IBM wanted me to work – there was a big meeting that I was supporting.

At the time I didn’t know what to do… I eventually shared my dilemma with my boss. He said they needed me for the whole weekend, or not at all. I had to choose – there was no trying to do both.

Twenty-five years later and the friend who visited that weekend, Dwin, is the godfather to my daughter, and has been a long-time great friend and mentor. IBM does not remember whether I worked that weekend or not, but Dwin would have remembered coming to New York and his friend being too busy to see him.

As I work countless hours in running this business, (while now I have a wonderful general management team) – I still must remind myself daily of the choices I make about where I spend my time.

Who will remember in 25 years what I did or did not do? Which choice will have the biggest impact on my sense of self and value and ultimately long-term happiness? After all “good relationships are strongly associated with happiness”. Our lives are really just the sum of all the moments we share with people, the experiences we have and the choices we make.

So when I choose where I spend my time, I choose powerfully, without regret – and I coach myself regularly on what (and who) is really important.

Naomi Simson is the founder and CEO (Chief Experiences Officer) of RedBalloon Days, Naomi is passionate about pleasure! Backed by enthusiasm, energy and drive and recently named one of Australia’s best bosses (Australia’s Marketing Employer of Choice), the Entrepreneurs Organisation (Sydney Chapter) President 2007 – 2008 and mother of two, Naomi also inspires others as a regular speaker, writes a blog and has recently completed her first book.

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