Balance

I was shocked to hear of Junior Seau's death this afternoon.  My memories of him are as a spirited competitor that played with controlled rage.  He made your team better by his play, leadership and conditioning.  He's been away from the game for three years but was playing middle linebacker in his late 30's.  Police are calling it a suicide.  He is the eighth member of the 1994 San Diego Charger team to pass away.  He was 43.

Football is an all-in game.  I suspect there is an adrenaline rush playing football that you don't get in all sports.  This is why leaving the sport can be difficult and why retiring can be hard.  The game takes a mental and physical toll leaving players ill equipped to handle life.  This appears to be the case with Seau.  His star burned bright but was fleeting.  Such a tragedy.

Though the white collar world isn't physical, there can be a mental toll taken daily.  Often, we don't know until someones health deteriorates, social issues are surfaced or risky behaviors are witnessed.  It is often hard to turn off the work day and relax, contribute to society, and enjoy family and friends.  As leaders, we must talk and walk the tightrope of balance.  We must show that we can turn it off and expect our teams to do the same.  We all need to develop other interests, take vacations and be able to smell the roses.  This is difficult on many levels and not experienced by many. 

Take a look in the mirror.  As a leader, are you balanced in your life or are you all-in like the football players mentioned above?  Live long and prosper and lead your team in appreciating life.