I've heard the comment, Don't let it be all consuming, often throughout life, but only recently have I experienced what that really means. As an educator and mom at the same time, my plate was more than filled for years, but there was so much to do that no one factor could be all-consuming. Now, with more time at last, I have to be careful that I don't recreate the crazy busyness I experienced as a mom/teacher again, but instead reap the benefits of this glorious time--time that I only experienced briefly here and there in my life before.
The all-consuming challenge, in part, exists in conjunction with the will to be a good team member. No one team member does all the work, and if they do, others may lose interest, investment, and commitment to the team's work. As a good team member, it is just as vital that you do your part as it is not to do other people's parts. Team means that everyone has a role, and we all work together.
Last night I had a vivid dream about this. Essentially there was a snafu with the teamwork, and I wasn't there. I erroneously picked up the slack rather than let the team members who were there solve the problem and make the needed changes. Fortunately, this was a dream and the painful ramifications of my act, a good lesson. My attitude, words, and reaction in the dream created a storm, and when I woke up from that nightmare, I knew exactly what not to do and what to do.
My role is to play my part, complete my role, and communicate with authenticity, honesty, and care. I can't play all roles and I don't want to, so I have to remember that. I also have to appreciate the good work of so many others who are doing such fine work with great commitment and investment. This teamwork is not about one task, one time period, or one result. Insteads it is about developing a strong, long lasting, dynamic team that can do lots of good work and service over time.
To allow something to become all consuming blinds us in many ways to the potential that exists for that project, person, or event as well as the myriad of other investments, opportunities, expectations, and tasks we are immersed in.
As always, a good balance is the best goal. Don't let anything become all consuming. Onward.