Reflection

I talk about being in the present a lot. You could say “it’s my thing.” A centerpiece of my Mindful Public Management Training. Do not dwell on the past. Focus on what is in front of you. Today is the only thing know - yesterday’s (or Tuesday’s for the Skynyrd fans) gone and tomorrow is not yet guaranteed. You know the platitudes. So what I will say next could come across as counter to that. Reflection is ok - think about this at night - what made today unique?

With my son asking me a question once - what do you do all day as a County Administrator? I would have fun rattling off the diversity of services and functions we as CAOs find ourselves in due to the expansiveness of county government in NY. In fact, I wrote about this story with Ben Effinger for ICMA’s PM Magazine). With an end-of-day reflection, and the asking about the unique nature of that day, such a practice can lead to a more appreciative self. You were blessed with another 24 hours, you maximized that time how? What did you do today that you never do? Might never do again? Pinch yourself to make sure you’re real.