Do you have a working problem working? My Personal Story

Posted by Frank Chiuppi on 02-04-2010

If you are like the average American, you are working, living, and playing at a speed of light pace, finding yourself at the end of the day feeling exhausted and used up.  Maybe a year has gone by, and you can't remember the last time that you took a vacation. Do you own more than three chargers for your iPhone  or Blackberry ? Do you create a work schedule that forces you into a eternal state of hitting deadlines and crossing items off the to do list?  Serious enough to the point where you can't take time off or your "system" will fall apart. This was me until my life took a turn from that state of perpertual working nonsense and I reached a breaking point, leading me to a conversation with a very smart friend of mine.  He shared a story with me that has made a huge impact on how I view life.  I would like to share this parabel that was written by Morven Westfield .

Early one morning Jacob and Edward go out to chop wood all day using axes. There is a bet who can chop the most wood. Jacob is quite physical.  Standing tall and stout at 6'4" 260 lbs. Edward is not quite the physical force, well not in bad shape, just more of the average build.  Jacob is very confident that because of his muscle he will chop more wood than Edward and win this bet.  So the wood chopping starts. During this axe swinging madness, Jacob notices that about every hour or so, Edward sits down for what appears to be a break.  Jacob thinks to himself, "I've got this bet won."  So, by the end of the day, Jacob is tired and hurting from his aching back and blistered hands and sits down to look at his work.  Jacob is proud of his large pile of wood.  Then, to Jacob's tired eyes he sees Edward standing by his pile of wood. Edward is not looking as tired and exhausted as Jacob, actually like he could still continue.  Edward's pile of wood is greater than Jacob's as well. Jacob, now feeling frustrated asks, "How could you have possibly cut more wood than I did Edward?  You took breaks and rested and I did not?"  Edward replied to Jacob, "That is where you are wrong my strong friend.  I was not just sitting and resting.  I was sharpening my axe."

At this point in my life, almost 4 years later, my life is so much more fulfilling. My work ethic is still as strong as ever.  My calender is still booked consistently.  There are very few differences between my current schedule and a past schedule. I found a hobby that I am truly passionate and created many memories and accomplishments that will stay with me forever.  I have been very plugged into my local church with great relationships and opportunties to give back to my community. Meals with family and friends are scheduled so that I dont miss out on those opportunities to continue cultivating relationships. However, one of the most important items on my calender is downtime.  All facets of my life are a beautiful equation properly balanced to create an environment for growth and fulfillment. 

Are you sharpening your axe?

Frank Chiuppi

Allison Clinical Enterprises