THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME
I’ve never had a hard time adjusting to life back on the North Fork whenever I’ve been away for an extended period of time. In fact, it often feels as though I’ve been living two lives simultaneously; one at home, and one wherever else I may be. This has been true for my studies in London, a stint in New Orleans, a move to San Diego, and now, winters in Jupiter. Something about returning home to the East End of Long Island has always felt natural, as though I’ve never left. There is no place like home, after all.
Just two weeks have passed since I left Florida. Other than trying to remember which kitchen cabinets have the coffee mugs, the transition has been pretty seamless. And let me just say, having my home office back has been a DREAM. Who knew how magical shutting a door could be? When you’re sharing a space with someone, it can sometimes be difficult to navigate around multiple needs and routines. But with proper planning, we make it work.
Among my other musings of being home, I’ve found myself in the camp of those that value an in-person meeting. There’s a special kind of collaboration that happens when you can be in a room with others, and if you’re with the right group, it can also be a lot of fun. [Yes, work can be fun!] This is the case with my longest running client, Group for the East End, as we inch closer to its annual fundraising benefit. I’m using every tool in my communications arsenal — strategic planning, design, public relations, copywriting, and email marketing. I even get to play therapist now and again!
Planning an event of this scale is an enormous responsibility that at times can become an emotional rollercoaster. I’m grateful to work alongside my colleague Kristina Lange as her right-hand woman. Kristina is a powerhouse and does an amazing job putting on these benefits, teaching me new tricks of the trade along the way. It’s not every day that you get to learn something new in a career you’ve been in for so long, so I truly value these opportunities and the ongoing support of my trusted colleague.
I must admit, I’ve impressed myself at my ability to find balance at this time. Between event planning and other client tasks, including launching a new website [more on that soon], I was able to enjoy a holiday weekend with a childhood friend, work in our vegetable garden, have coffee with friends, and revisit a writing project that had taken a backseat for far too long.
Of course, the scales tip at times and my usual morning routine gets pushed aside, or I respond to emails a little later than I would like. But that’s life!
When I feel like I’m lacking direction or perhaps am a little overwhelmed, I step outside and reset. Even if just for a moment, a break can do wonders for your mental clarity and productivity.
So I suppose that is my message to you as I ramble on — take a break. Get outside, sit in another room, meditate, close your eyes and take a deep breath. As Katrina Scott said in a closing meditation in one of her live workouts, there’s peace in the pause. Take whatever pause works for you and relish the moment.
— RB
