The Long Road Home...

Tiredness. It's been almost a month since I left home and the constant travelling is starting to take its toll. My insomnia is getting from bad to worse and my body has to deal with only 3 hours of daily sleep at most. What's worst is that I can't seem to sleep when I should and stay awake when I have to. Jet lag doesn't last a month so this is something else altogether. I can't wait to get back to my family and routine.

 

Loneliness. Sitting alone in a small café far far away, sipping my favourite cup of cappuccino,  it dawned on me that my travel schedules are really starting to affect my kids. My eldest son cries every time I tell him I'm about to go overseas. My second son, he's been trying to keep his brothers in line constantly when I'm away and I can see that it's taking a toll on him. No.3 throws tantrums constantly and takes it out on the maids in his bid for attention and my youngest daughter repeatedly asks why Daddy isn't home. 

 

Guilt and Remorse. Then there's my loving wife who misses me 24/7 every single trip I take. She's dependent on me and for that I'm thankful. Yet, every time I leave, she gets anxiety attacks. It pains me to see her struggling with her work and our family all alone. If I could help it, I would rather she travels and I stay behind to take care of my work and our family. Unfortunately, until we find a way to merge our businesses, that simply isn't possible.

 

Epiphany. So what is the purpose of my post today? Often, we go about our schedules and forget about the people that matter most to us. We miss out on important events and give ourselves the excuse that we are simply too busy. Why should our family suffer at the expense of our career? Why do we expect our 5 year old child to understand that Daddy's not around for his birthday because he has to travel for work?

 

Realization. It's time to take a stand. No longer shall my family suffer because of my work. I either find a way to replace myself or manage the business in a more sustainable manner. I do not want to see my kids grow up thinking that Daddy's never around!

 

Resolution. In fact, I will make this a new year's resolution for 2014. I resolve to put my family above my career and to never miss another of my children's birthday.  Sitting alone in a café far far away, sipping my last sip of cappuccino, I am determined to make this work. Daddy will be coming home, Daddy will be around always...