PICK TWO
Austin Kleon gave advice to a friend who was moving in to town. "Work. Family. Scene. Pick two."
In translation, we can't do it all or be everywhere. We cannot do two different things at the same time. We cannot be at two different places at the same time. Pick the two that matter most. If you decide to work, a lot, and attend all the social invites or events, well, family will not have you. If its family and the scene, you likely aren't making much money or haven't found work you love.
Where time is given, that aspect will grow. We already are in short supply of time, so the emphasis here may Austin Kleon is a stern and sound reminder. Our calendars are reflections of our priorities, its been said.
My two are family and work. Which doesn’t allow much space or time for the “scene.” I don't get out much. Likely the reason I don't have many friends. It certainly explains why I've said "no" more to invites than than “yes.” I didn't hear of Kleon's advice when I declined to attend social events, I simply had to draw a line for myself. I agree with "pick two," however, we can definitely create a balance. This is where "work-life balance comes from. It isn't up to your employer to do. It's your job. So maybe, we could sprinkle in some "scene" time. Saying “yes” once for every four “no’s.” The idea of the right "scene" for me makes sense and allows for us to build community and friendship.
How else would we have time for a hobby. Or a work out regimen. My belief is we can pick more than two, if we use the time we have better. With intention and focus. With a pattern and rhythm. The objective being not to waste time, so our lives can have more balance. As I sit and reflect, my four would be: family, self-improvement, work and meaningful connections.