My team at work keeps an insane pace. Every member has a good sized work load and there does not seem like there will be any slow down in the pace in the near future. Thus, I feel it is a good time to remind myself of a few key things.

• I love my job – The pace keeps things exciting and challenging. I love a good challenge.
• I really enjoy the people I work with – My team is filled with talented individuals. Everyone has something unique to bring to the table and we can all learn something from one another.
• We are all working towards the same goals – While it may not seem like it all the time, we are all driving towards creating sustainable (not just maintainable) systems that provide what the business needs and grow with the business.
• We all need to unplug now and then – When you work long hours and demanding project time lines, it is important to turn off the blackberry and really relax for a few hours. Just make sure your not on-call when you unplug!
• Spend good time with your family – It can be all to easy to neglect or lash out at the people that support you the most when you are stressed. Make time for the most important people in your life and don’t make them suffer any stress that you feel.
• Leave work at work – We all have to work from home sometimes, but leave the stress and hurriedness of work in the office. If you must work from home, do it in a separate place from where you live. Make sure that you have a dedicated space so people know you are working and not to disturb you.
• Sleep in on the weekends – Unless you have to go into the office that is…
• Do something good for the soul – Go for a hike, a walk on the beach, to the gym, visit a museum, see a concert or a play… get the picture?
• Take a vacation – Make sure you leave the blackberry and cell phones at home, try not to take a computer too.

This is really a reminder to myself. Take it for what it is worth.