What is it worth?

Which would you prefer?

Outside of the building where I work, there’s a row of parking spots near the entrance that are reserved for the executives. Land Rover, Lexus, Mercedes, BMW, Audi, and Saab are all represented. I’m not talking about the entry-level coupes and sedans; several of these cars retail for well into six figures. Beautiful cars.

When I arrive at work in the morning, the cars are there. When I leave in the evening, the cars are still there.

Invariably, there will also be a tiny, beaten compact car with bumper stickers, peeling paint, fishing poles, and camping equipment all but hanging out of the windows. The drivers of these cars are often seen scurrying out of their cubicles at 4:30pm on the dot, racing to an afternoon adventure or simply getting on with their lives. I’m stereotyping, but you know what I’m talking about.

I don’t think there’s anything wrong with working hard, having nice things, or any of that. I just have to wonder about the fulfillment of the person who’s pulling into their driveway at 10pm after an evening of fishing vs. the person who’s just sending their last email at 10pm…before checking it again when they get home.

…and coming into the office a few hours later.

It’s not for everyone. Go fish.

Willie Jackson is a Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI) Consultant & Facilitator with ReadySet, a boutique consulting firm based in the San Francisco Bay Area. He is a frequent writer and speaker on the topics of workplace equity, global diversity, and inclusive leadership. Connect on LinkedIn or get in touch.