"الكثير من الناس يقلقون بشأن إدارة حياتهم المهنية، لكن نادراً ما يبذلون نصف هذا الجهد في إدارة حياتهم."

The main idea here is that people often pour tons of energy into their careers but neglect the personal aspects of their lives. Think about it. We’re always hustling at work, trying to climb that corporate ladder, but how much time do we actually spend on our personal happiness and well-being?

Historically, this perspective has roots in our society's intense focus on professional success. Especially in the hustle culture that's been prevalent for decades, there's this notion that work defines our identity. But, there’s been a shift lately, especially after the pandemic. People are starting to realize that maybe there's more to life than just work. The great resignation and quiet quitting are proof that folks are re-evaluating their priorities.

Let’s imagine a scenario: Sarah is a mid-level executive at a tech firm. She’s ambitious, driven, and her work is spotless. But, she’s constantly stressed out. She misses family dinners, skips her yoga classes, and hasn't taken a vacation in years. Her career is thriving, but her personal life? Not so much. One day, she goes to a friend's wedding and realizes she doesn’t even know half the people there anymore. They've grown apart because she’s been too busy working. This moment hits her hard. What’s the point of all her professional success if she’s lonely and stressed?

Thinking about how to apply this wisdom? Start by really looking at your calendar. How much of it is work-related? Pencil in time for things that make you happy and relaxed—maybe it’s reading a book, going for a hike, or just having a meal with your family without checking your phone. It doesn't have to be grandiose. Small steps can make a big difference. If you're constantly chasing your tail at work, set boundaries. You don’t need to answer that email at 10 PM. Trust me, it can wait.

Here’s a relatable story: Imagine John, a lawyer who works long hours. He’s gunning for a partner position, so he’s always the first in and the last out. One weekend, he’s supposed to go on a fishing trip with his dad—a tradition they've had for years. But he cancels last minute because of a big case. His dad goes alone, and tragically, has a heart attack mid-trip and passes away. John is devastated. All those extra hours at work suddenly seem so insignificant compared to the time he lost with his dad. This might sound extreme, but it’s a wake-up call.

So, think about your own life. Are you putting in the effort to manage it as well as you manage your career? You don’t have to wait for a tragedy or a wake-up call. Balance is key. Life isn't just about work. It's about those small, precious moments with loved ones, taking care of your health, and doing things that bring you joy.

Next time you're tempted to burn the midnight oil, ask yourself—what’s really more important in the long run? Your work will always be there, but those moments with family, those chances to take care of yourself? They might not come around again. Let's give our personal lives the attention they deserve.