The Leading Edge:  The Hidden Danger of Loving Your Work

 I’m one of those lucky folks who actually loves what he does for a living.  Early in my career, I was in the office after 7pm, lost in a big project, thinking I was all alone.  Imagine my surprise when my coworker Hugh popped his head around the corner and said,

“Hey!”

I may have said a bad word and soiled myself.

But then Hugh, an empty nester who was far more experienced and wise than I, said something I’ll never forget.

“You know, Scott.  If you’re here by yourself late every night, it might not be a good thing.  You can love your work, but work will never love you back.”

And then he turned and left.

I’ve never forgotten that.  I’m reminded of the conversation anytime I’m talking with a retired exec who is lamenting the fact that they rarely hear from people they worked with over the years.  It’s a fairly common story.  We pour our hearts and souls into products and projects, forgetting that they will never love us back.  And the realization can be disheartening.

It’s a good reminder to me – and to all of us – that work may never love us back, but people will.  So, while I’m burning the midnight oil, it’s important to remember I should probably be pouring some genuine care, love and concern into another human being while I’m at it.  Because plaques and bonuses and certificates aren’t forever. 

But true friendships are.

Peace and love everyone! And, if there is a nugget of wisdom you’ve picked up from a beloved coworker or friend, I’d be grateful if you shared it here.