By: Tim Hooks
I’m sure once upon a time, a high school buddy of mine or two probably called me a “meathead” or something of the sort. I was as competitive as they come (some of my friends would scoff at my use of the past tense). But ultimately, I don’t think anyone ever truly meant that about me. That said, I was an exercise nut. Seven days a week, in some way shape or form, I was exercising. I probably annoyed more than my fair share of friends, co-workers, and acquaintances with my raised eyebrow at the notion of excuses of lack of time. I say all this in past tense due to the fact that I have two little kids now— a two-year-old boy and an eight-week-old little girl—as well as a full-time working wife. Priorities change, schedules change. I now know this and now roll my eyes when my best friend, who is unmarried and without children, says you can’t let the kids rule your world. In some ways, his advice is absolutely true. In others, he has no idea of the reality of what he is saying. The balance is somewhere in the middle. That is a much longer subject than can be addressed here. The reality is kids do rule your world and you try to work in a little time for yourself and your spouse when it is convenient and doesn’t take time away from them.
Recently, I started trying to go to the gym at lunch, with “trying” being the opportune word. I am not suggesting everyone do this. It extends lunch by at least thirty minutes. You have to have a job that will allow such flexibility. But if you do have the capability, you might want to consider it. Even just a once or twice a week will make you physically feel better. More importantly, other parts of you might feel better as well. I played basketball for the first time in two years and loved it, as it allowed me to tap into my competitive nature (something sorely neglected since my son was born). I was sore for a few days (ok, a week) but it was completely worth it. I can’t use the word “invigorating,” as it would be greatly taking for granted how wonderful my life is. I could say I had more up of a “giddy-up” in my step for a few days.
And that, my friends, is what I am talking about. Kids, especially little ones, will make you put yourself on the back burner. But don’t completely forget about yourself and what makes you happy… be it exercise, reading, volunteering, etc. Mix in a little bit here and there and it can make a big difference.
Tim Hooks was born in Greensboro, NC. He attended Wake Forest University, where he received his Master and Bachelor of Science in 2000. He worked two years at Arthur Andersen before being hired at Bernard Robinson & Company, LLP in the Fall of 2002, where he currently serves as a Senior Tax Manager. He has been the Chair of the NCACPA Work Life Committee for the last two years. Tim is married to Kira and has two children, son Parker and daughter Juliet. In his spare time he enjoys hiking, mountain biking, college basketball and most importantly, playing with my son.