A short respite...

Entering the year 2010, it has indeed been a busy time for me so far.

Teaching assignments; the endless amounts of grading my students within a short timeline; conducting leadership training sessions; and heading off for 2 weeks of army reservist training. I foresee breathing space during the month of Ferbuary...I hope =)

Thankfully, today is a very much needed respite from my work and responsibilities. To give you an idea of how tight my back to back schedule is, I am only able to fit in certain appointments on the way from the toilet to the carpark --- talk as we walk. Arrive at the car, meeting over. Job done.

But yes, today, as part of the institution's performance indicators for its staff, I am required to sit in, observe and report on one of my colleagues in their presentation of the lesson. Such an exercise can be rather intimidating for both Observer and Observee. If you can imagine the potential level of blackmail that might take place, you will know what I mean. Thankfully, my colleague, J, is an easy going free spirit. She does a good job anyway, so it's a straightforward exercise for the both of us.

That means, I get a chance to breathe!

Actually, it sounds worse than it actually is. I remember the days in Advertising that left me with heart palpitations and breathlessness --- an exciting industry indeed. Not to mention high levels of stress! That was a different ball game altogther --- with the potential for many to burnout.

But the work I am doing now, though busy, I am actually quite enjoying it.

Still, a man needs to rest.

Rest has been understated, especially amongst the Generation X-ers and, especially Y-ers. We think that if our mind is able to push us to multi-task between office work, family responsibilities and fitness training for that triathlon coming up next month. But the reality is this --- our mind can make us achieve heights physically we are not able to attain, but only for a limited period only. Everything comes at a cost, and while you have achieved a greater height, the toll on your body can be irreversible.

It could even kill you.

I have friends and acquaintances who hold top positions in their corporations. They work till late and then go for late night jogs, swims (think 12am). They sleep at 2am and then get up at 6am. They are quite proud of their ability to balance such a lifestyle.

I shudder.

Research has proven that with little sleep, people die earlier; are not able to concentrate for long periods; and are prone to make wrong decisions.

To be fair, I was one of these individuals who thought that nothing could stand in my way. But I have learnt my lesson, and I have to make time to rest.

Yes, one has to make time to rest, especially if you are the go-getter type of person.

And so, on this day of respite, I have planned to visit the mall nearby to get a pair of tennis shoes (so that I can keep the tennis date planned in February). I will also head to the gym for a short run and pump some iron. And then there is more grading for tonight.

Hmm...I've learnt my lesson, eh?