Every so often, I need to remind myself (and send a newsletter about it!) to take time to have fun, to enjoy work that can be frustrating but never boring, and to experience the cities and cultures that feed our curiosity while giving us meaningful careers.
But a few weeks ago, I had an additional realization: that the ability to have fun and enjoy life is finite. We have to recognize that and take advantage of the time we have.
I learned that sitting with my father while he was dying. I had a lot of time with him and literally talked to him until he died. His heart just stopped working as if he was switched off.
My father was a problem solver. His thinking was very methodical, and he elevated every discussion because he had empathy. I grew up with a strong work ethic—there was a time and a place to get work done, and there was a time to play. He believed that if you love what you do, the money will follow. I received so much from him, including my height. (He was 6’7”!) Communication was a priority for him, and he insulated our family from unnecessary stress.
Growing up in Iowa, I learned to be courteous. At the same time, I learned to speak out even if someone might think I was wrong or unreasonable.
Spending those few weeks in Iowa, I processed what he taught me, knowing I wanted to keep his communication skills alive. Recently, I have become aware of how much human interaction is being curtailed by technology: from chatting with the person who rings up the groceries who was replaced with self-checkout to hearing that “wait times are longer than usual” when we only want to talk to a human being about a fairly minor problem. Several people who attended CES in January commented that exhibitors assumed attendees could get most of their information on touch screens. Staff to answer questions were in short supply.
Trade shows will always attract people. Touch screens will never replace the human interaction that makes trade shows unique–and, more often than not, fun. Automation is supposed to simplify life, not lead to frustration. When we eliminate human contact, we feel stressed and guilty when things don’t run smoothly.
Trade shows and encounters with people replenish my energy and help me realize the power of fun. Sometimes I have to ditch my ‘to-do’ lists. Sometimes, I need to say something kind or smile when I encounter a person who needs a sympathetic word or an expression of appreciation. Or offering help if “help” only involves hanging with a friend dealing with a problem.
I’m so glad I got to visit with my father before he died. I’m glad I could support my mother. I’m so grateful for my old high school friends who showed up to support me and help me through some tough moments. And I’m happy that I work in the trade show industry, where people crave human interaction—and I need to remind myself that life and the ability to have fun and enjoy my life is finite. Thanks, Dad!
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