Early in my career, I would see Andy a few times a year. And no matter when or where we crossed paths, he always asked me the same question:
“Are you having fun?”
I’d usually answer without thinking.
“Yeah, I’m having fun.”
Just kind of going with the flow.
It wasn’t until much later that I realized what he was really asking.
I don’t think he meant busy or successful or productive. I think he meant:
Are you doing something you actually love?
Something that gives you energy instead of draining it?
Andy had come to the conclusion that life is very, very short. And at some point, you reach a stage where reflection becomes unavoidable. You start to realize you have more years behind you than in front of you. And every year you live moves you closer to that truth.
As I turn 50, that question has taken on new weight.
I woke up this morning thinking about all the things I do—and answering it honestly.
Am I having fun?
And the answer is yes.
I’m at a stage in life where I don’t have the luxury of not enjoying my days. Not enjoying the work. Not enjoying the people. Not enjoying the calling.
Each day matters too much for anything less.