I remember the day my mentor asked me if I truly understood the term “sense of urgency.” Confidently, I told him I did. After all, I had always prided myself on my ability to meet deadlines and budgets almost as swiftly as I regularly tackled tasks. I patched the holes, believing that urgency was merely about speed and money. However, it wasn't until recently, as I reflected on my time on this Earth and the world we live in, that I realized how shallow my comprehension had been.
I glanced at the calendar and felt the weight of the years gone by. I had spent so much time focusing on the immediate and “urgent” emails, looming deadlines, and the next big project. But what about the broader picture? What about the dreams deferred, the relationships neglected, the personal goals pushed aside in favor of the pressing demands of the moment?
A stark example of this revelation came during a conversation with a dear friend I hadn't seen in years. As we caught up, I was struck by how much life had happened while we were both busy dealing with our own “urgent” matters. We laughed about old memories, but there was a poignant undercurrent to our conversation. Almost as if there were a shared sense of time slipping away and opportunities missed.
One particularly vivid memory that brought this home was a family vacation I had planned years ago. At the time, I was juggling multiple responsibilities at work, and I almost canceled the trip. But something, perhaps a subconscious nudge, or most might chalk up to “needing a break” made me go ahead with it. That week spent with my family, away from the pressures of daily life, turned out to be one of the most meaningful experiences we've ever had. A reminder that urgency isn't just about reacting to what's immediate, but also seizing the moments that build a fulfilling life.
In my professional life as the owner and publisher of Herbage Magazine, I've often faced the challenge of balancing immediate tasks with long-term vision. The cannabis industry is fast-paced and constantly evolving, and it’s easy to get caught up in the whirlwind. But I’ve learned that a true sense of urgency involves not just responding to market trends but also nurturing the core values and mission of the magazine. It means taking the time to build relationships, explore innovative ideas, and create content that genuinely resonates with our readers.
This shift in perspective has also influenced my personal life a little and I hope this will have a major impact on my personal well-being. Each day spent learning and growing seems to be a step towards a more purposeful and fulfilling life.
It's about purpose and intention. It's about making deliberate choices that align with our deepest values and aspirations. Time is our most precious resource, and a true sense of urgency means making the most of every moment, both in our professional ventures and our personal lives.
Take a step back and ask yourself: What truly matters? What are the moments and experiences that will enrich your life and leave a lasting impact? Embrace a “sense of urgency” that goes beyond the immediate, and hopefully and most assuredly you’ll find that life becomes not just a series of tasks, but a journey filled with meaning and fulfillment.
Torches up!