Business Trips Are Difficult: A Reflection from Virginia Crossings
Today, I’m writing from the beautiful Virginia Crossings Hotel and Conference Center. Despite the overcast weather, the stunning symmetry of this place is a sight to behold. As I navigate the nuances of this business conference, I’m reminded of the dual nature of such events.
The Dual Nature of Business Conferences
Attending business conferences often feels like a breath of fresh air. They provide a welcome break from my usual routine, allowing me to leave behind the daily grind of home and work. These trips often feel like mini-vacations where I can enjoy good food, good sleep, and valuable social time with clients and colleagues.
Yet, there’s a flip side to this enjoyment. The challenge lies in balancing these trips with my responsibilities back home. Being away from the family, especially my wife, is tough. I owe immense gratitude to her for managing everything so smoothly in my absence. Additionally, my in-laws’ support with the kids is invaluable, making these trips possible.
Personal Growth and Family Dynamics
In recent years, I’ve experienced significant personal growth. This current conference has been emotionally challenging, more so than I expected. It’s been a while since my last conference, which was cut short due to a stomach virus the first night I arrived, and this time, being away from my wife, daughter, and son has been particularly hard.
As I get older, the balance between my professional responsibilities and my deepening love for my family becomes more complex. These conferences, while exhilarating and productive, also make me keenly aware of how much I miss my family. Further, these conferences are busy, exhausting, yet incredibly fulfilling because I’ve found they usually allow me to accomplish a lot of good, focused work.
Staying Connected: Tips for Business Travelers
Over time, I’ve developed strategies to manage the balance between work travel and family life. One crucial aspect is staying emotionally available for my wife and kids, even from afar. I prioritize setting aside time for FaceTime calls and texting when they are free. Keeping my wife updated about my daily activities helps maintain our connection and ensures she feels involved in my time even while away.
Even small updates, like sharing dinner plans or what I ordered at a restaurant, make a significant difference. These ongoing communications help bridge the gap, making the distance feel less daunting.
Looking Forward: Travel, Family, and Future Plans
Looking ahead, I cherish the idea of being home more often with my kids. While I love traveling, the prospect of sharing these experiences with my family excites me even more.
I am particularly looking forward to the day when my children are old enough to join me on these trips. Seeing them explore new places will be incredibly rewarding. This year, I’m planning to bring my wife Maria along to a conference at the Omni Homestead Resort. She has been wanting to stay at the Homestead and typically, I get a room to myself during these trips, so she should be able to accompany me, turning it into a fun experience for us.
Concluding Thoughts and Audience Engagement
In your job, do you frequently go on business trips? How do you balance them, especially with family at home? Are these trips becoming easier or harder for you over time? I’m keen to hear your thoughts.
