My 2022 Goals - Prioritizing Time Over Money
Happy New Year! I love the New Year. It's literally and figuratively a time for renewal, reflection and it gives you a renewed sense of purpose.
I have been sitting in my feelings about how 2021 went, and I feel exhausted. After the income losses I suffered personally, and our businesses had in 2020, I thought it was necessary to make it all up and then some. I put way too much on my plate; I said yes when I should have said no; I tried to accommodate clients, tenants, and business partners, further inconveniencing myself or sacrificing time with my family. And then for what? I had a few clients that I honestly bent over backward for working past my regular business hours, discounting my fees, and even going above and beyond, and some deals still fell through.
I know our current culture glamorizes "the hustle," but at what cost? The mindset of anything necessary to secure the bag doesn't work for me anymore. I can recognize the privilege I have to be in a position where I don't have to scrap anymore to get by, but even in my professional goals, I realize the more I've obtained, the more work it took to maintain it.
I recently had this conversation with my cousin-in-law about how we feel that the more we accomplish, the more complicated and exhausted we have become in life. While I can recognize that money solves most problems, it doesn't alleviate them. When you have to work to keep all the balls in the air, it puts a strain on your marriage and can alienate your children. I had the worse realization recently; a local go-karting business I pass daily, whether taking Suri to preschool or going to my in-laws, closed down, and I never took my children there. The thought never crossed my mind because I was busy checking off my to-do list, running to client appointments, or reconciling bills. By the time the weekend came, I couldn't do any other activities.
That's just not fair to my family, there is no point in making this money, and you can't even enjoy it. I believe more than anything; time is the actual currency; making money gives you the privilege of freeing up your time. One thing the pandemic has taught me is that you make all these plans, so many people worked in positions for 30+ years, had fully funded 401(k)s, months of retirement, and they didn't live to see it. The years of late hours at the office, missed dance recitals and sports games, probably forgotten anniversaries because they were working. That is just not what I want for me.
Just this week, I was approached by a Global hotel brand. They want our family to model in an upcoming campaign; their expectations and budget don't align. I asked the the specific terms and requirements which is a lot. They weren't able to meet my rate, so it isn't the right fit for us. My time with my family is more valuable than the recognition and fame to be a part of a global brand campaign.
This year it's all about time for me. The simple things, taking Suri to get vegan, nut-free, and soy-free ice cream (hello, food allergies). We are visiting local parks in the area and finding time to get adequate sleep, exercise, and eat well.
I am so grateful for the position I am in, God continues to bless me, and I realize that he is my source. All of my income streams are resources. If they all dry up tomorrow, I trust that God will make a way.
Shoot Details:
Photographer - RTW Photography
Creative Director - Tishele Smith
Loungewear - Waffle Crew Neck Sweater and Shorts Set
