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Choose relationships over work every time
The 12-Minute Phone Call
I wanted to jump straight back to work today, but something within me told me to call a dear friend back. The writing, the goals, the work, all of that could wait, but the people I care about that’s not something I should ever wait on.
A 12-minute phone call was all it took to connect with the person I loved. Did I feel antsy on the call? Yes. Did I think about work? Yes. But I stayed on the call and tried to stay as present as possible.
The Quick Catch Up
After that, a loved one walked into the house. My initial reaction was to chat with them “later,” but something within me told me to initiate a conversation and inquire about their life.
The Standing Appointment
Within one hour, I had another meeting with a loved one. Internally, I was freaking out because I needed to return to work for another long stretch of productivity.
But I knew they needed that call to happen more than I did. Empathy is what helped me follow through. If I were in their situation, what would I want? I’d want the people I love to take time out of their day for me.
5 Lessons
1. Be less selfish and more empathetic.
Step outside of your world and consider someone else; by doing this, you always activate a beautiful feeling in your soul that can only come from giving to another person.
2. The sacrifices we make to spend with those we love add up.
If you take a minute to be present and appreciate these moments with your loved ones, you will notice a seed of joy and fulfillment growing in your spirit.
I can’t make up for all the failed relationships and memories I missed out on because of work, but I can change my actions today.
3. We never know how long people will remain in our lives.
They can be gone in an instant – without a goodbye, without notice, and without preparing us for their departure.
If you haven’t permanently lost anyone close to you before, take it from me, it’s painful. The people I lost, I didn’t cherish the time I had with them when they were around. I can live in regret, or I can change my behavior today. I’m choosing the latter option because that’s more productive for my current relationships.
4. Boundaries matter.
No, I won’t take every phone call. I won’t respond to every text right away. I won’t always be available. However, I will make myself more available than I have been previously because I have learned that work never trumps relationships. Work, goals, and progress will always be waiting for me. People won’t.
5. Time is constantly winding down.
The clock is ticking. The reality is that there will be people around the world tomorrow that won’t make it another day; the people who love them will be devastated because they’re gone and also because they didn’t take that phone call, take time to see them, or spend consistent quality time with them.
It’s up to you. Live in the moment, and cherish the people you love because they won’t always be here in the moment with you.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.