All work and no play.....

I'm concerned...I'm concerned about a guy that I know and respect (at least today) who is the epitome of a real life Ebenezer Scrooge. He is obsessed with work. He is attached to it by his Blackberry. He thinks about it when he is off, when he is on, when he is here, and when he is away. It is his all-consuming passion. That's great for "the company". It would explain why he is able to make great leaps in a short time in his career. So far, so good for him.

Here are the two things that I'm concerned about. First of all, his all-consuming passion is something that he expects of all of his associates. He extends their work hours to the longest in the company, he pooh-pooh's things like holiday parties and social gatherings, he doesn't see a great need for holidays (or days of lost business in his eyes). All of these things obviously have a direct effect on those who work for him.

Secondly, I'm concerned about him when he's 50. Right now, he's enjoying his prime as an up and coming thirty-something. He has people that he can kick back with, but his devotion to work doesn't appear to let him get close to anyone, because he or they may be on their way up or out and won't be around for too long. I'm concerned that he will begin to look back (I know I have) and wonder what it was all for. It's great to be a Vice President, but what does that buy you? Where are the memories of time with family and friends? Those vacations to places that you'll never forget? And do you really want your sole mark on this world to be measured by a financial ledger?

I highly doubt that the inspiration for these thoughts will ever read them, but I post them as a warning to any of you who may be so inclined. If you recognize even a portion of yourself in this, perhaps it's time to re-evaluate. It doesn't even have to be work that is your all-consuming passion.....mine was my volunteering for an ambulance corps. That became my life to the exclusion of all else. That was no more healthy than Scrooge's passion.

It's good to be passionate and to follow that passion. It's important, however, to remember that life is intended to be more like a smorgasbord. There are a variety of experiences to be savored. While you may have your favorite(s) that are heaped on your plate, they shouldn't be the only thing there. Who knows, if you try something different, it may complement your favorite very nicely. Give it a shot.

Thoughts anyone?