Well, It has been nearly a month since my last post and really since my last anything!  On January 24th, my son was born.  He is my first and came with a little something extra.  He is down syndrome and has a heart condition and an issue with his kidneys.  All of this has led to my checking out from routine and reality over the last month.  We spent some extra time in the NICU but he has now been home for a few weeks and is doing wonderful.  He is our blessing and I love it.

I tell you this to simply point out that sometimes life throws a curve ball and it can be tricky to catch.  My blog here is perfect evidence of me dropping the ball (not posting in a month! Come on Billy!!).  My routine was utterly destroyed by the new found responsibilities and extra hospital time.  My reading, studying, working, all have suffered.  Now, I absolutely do not regret the time spent with my son. However, my handle of the other stuff has been less than stellar.  This is an important principle of life productivity.  How we handle the curve ball may demonstrate personal power that will carry throughout our lives.  This does not mean the routine “changes for no one” but simply that we are flexible and still responsible.  Taking a break from the blog is not the issue, it has been the slow transition back into reality that has been my downfall.  This goes for other aspects of my own productivity.  Flexibility is essential for just such moments as long as we know when it is time to mount up and get back to business.  I have not let essentials, of course.  That being relationships with close friends, business associates, clients, and “urgent” matters.  I simply have slacked in the departments of personal education and dissemination of ideas.  What I didn’t realize is how critical a piece that area is in my general well being and personal productivity.  A sharp mind and innovative thinking are  foundational pieces of my makeup.  By slacking on those, other areas suffer.  Well, my friends, I have learned from my mistakes and am here to announce my return to reality and higher productivity.  So what are the key principles I have taken from the last month?

• First, It IS okay to take time to focus on the most important things in your life.
• Be flexible but know when to start back up.  Don’t let the “time off” turn into a hitch that holds you back.
• Curve balls will come, know it, prepare for it, embrace it.
• Routines can and will change permanently (especially with major changes like kids!)
• Keep a sharp mind and take time for personal education even when you’re not “working”. Read, study, share ideas, its essential.
• And of course, Kids are a blessing!! Especially mine… hehe

Have you ever experienced times like this?  If not, you’re a liar!! This is not my first either…  Share your thoughts on lessons learned, strategies, etc.