Leader Letters are monthly letters from the Maintex Leadership team. This month, Maintex President Linda Silverman spent some time reflecting on what it means to maintain a fulfilling balance between work and personal time in our non-stop world. Here are her thoughts.
I just returned from a nice weekend following the Fourth of July and am on a plane heading to a business appointment. The flight is a great opportunity to get some uninterrupted work accomplished. It also gives me time to ponder the importance of work/life balance.
Everyone has their own perspective on what is a healthy balance, but for me it is pretty simple. I learned a great lesson from my father, Ralph Silverman. Dad was an entrepreneur who founded our business when I was a child. He wore “many hats” as he created Maintex. His company roles included: chemist, administrator, sales, logistics and HR.
Business was simpler in the 1960’s, but Dad’s jobs were many. Beyond Maintex his most important role was supporting his family with my mother by his side. He was there for family dinners, always assisting in the kitchen. Along with Mom he attended our school events and had time on weekends to play tennis and go on water skiing adventures. He worked hard but had work life balance. It was never a topic of discussion in the sixties, but rather how he lived life.
Today, I see work-life balance in much the same way as my father did. For me it is about working diligently with our team at Maintex. I think about work much of the time, am in the office early, work long hours and even keep a pen and paper by my bedside incase I wake up with an innovative idea. I want to be a positive example to our team.
On the “life balance” side for me it is about family and friends, charity and community, cultural interests, travel and of course all of that equals fun. People tell me I am the “Energizer Bunny” because I am on the go so much.
Focusing my off work hours on these pursuits keeps me happy and fulfilled. Sometimes my work intersects with industry volunteer activities. Serving on community projects and Boards is a very rewarding experience.
Time spent with family and friends is most important. This is my prescription of work life balance! Life is never guaranteed so enjoy every day. Work hard but take time to enjoy those closest to you. Participate in the activities that are fulfilling for you whether it is spiritual, exercise, hobbies, charity or just fun.
