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by codingdave 2494 days ago
> and I would be fully present for all the moments that mattered.

This quote stood out, because as a promise to your family, it really sucks. We never know what the moments that matter to other people are going to be. Big events are nice. But when you think back on your life, how many important moments were from small events? Just having a nice talk, doing a chore with your dad, telling your mom about your day? How many idle comments from friends ended up having a large impact on you?

When dealing with family, you need to be there enough that moments happen, because the scope of their impact on the lives of those around you are not predictable.

3 comments

On of the things my wife insisted on was that we always got together as a family for dinner. That definitely had a negative impact on my career in that I couldn't be the 'last guy to leave', but it gave me a solid relationship with my kids as they grew. I am glad to this day that she insisted.
Agreed. I hardly ever see my daughter in the morning but make sure that 99% of the time I'm home in time to put her to bed and read a story (she's 8), often it's at bedtime that any worries come out, and I'm so glad I'm able to be there to listen.
If you are a founder/CEO type, you are missing the important events, period. I don't care what your Facebook/Insta/LinkedIn says. On your deathbed, all your success wont buy you another second with your children.

I'm fine with people sacrificing for their work, but don't try to sell the "I'm doing it all" crap.