I flew back for my first week of work after relocating. I'm staying with FB till Sept 6th for a myriad of reasons, but most importantly, because my team deserves a smooth transition. So, I committed to flying back weekly, finding a +1 backfill - someone who will lead them into their next great chapter, someone who is ++ what I have to offer, someone who can double down on their talents. This takes time. And while I am missing my family and the wonderful sound of the wilderness, my work family gets my attention this week and for a few more.
I can't deny that I'm in a weird place. It's like I'm double dating Arkansas and California at the same time. When I arrived at SF airport, the Uber driver asked where I came from and I said Arkansas. He promptly said "Wow wow" and left it at that.
We sat in silence till we arrived in Palo Alto and he sarcastically said, "the houses here must be cheaper than in Arkansas". I laughed. Then he asked how long I'd be in town and if I'd have time to visit Santa Cruz or Monterey as they are lovely. I clarified that I moved from Santa Cruz and again, "Wow wow". When I got out of the car, he said, "good luck in Arkansas and hope you get to retire after selling your house".
"I am not retiring", I replied, "I enjoy working, being productive, helping people and communities". He responded with, "then you can volunteer - great for you". I said thanks and got out. Yes, the cost of living is a bit more manageable in Middle America compared to California, but that doesn't mean everyone migrating out of California is planning to retire and golf or shoot snakes. It also doesn't mean we are taking our California values and force feeding them to different cultures. While some may, our intentions are to broaden perspectives, allow for differences, and stand firm where passion allows. More on that later.
In the meantime, I'm double dating. California holds a special place in my heart. I love the fast pace environment, the clouds on the mountains, the rocky ocean cliffs, and the amazing salad bowl potpourri of culinary delights. I appreciate the ease of Ubers and Airbnb's with organic hand soap and slippers at the door. And most of all - I appreciate the time I get to spend with my amazing team which is now on a definitive timer.
I've not fully relegated my brain to think beyond Sept 6th as I want to be fully invested until I'm not. The glorious thing about my role is that it's never ending. The problems are complex, impact the way the world works, and I get an opportunity to help talented people grow. There's nothing greater I'd ask for so am grateful to have these weeks ahead of me to invest that one last coffee talk, calibration, goal session, and company q&a.
...but I can't deny...nature calls...as does the sweet family who leaves me Easter eggs that I hope to not forget this time....