In 1985 I created a 17 page “business” plan about my relationship with my family. The plan included a regular at least weekly date with my wife and children. What made the date unique was I personally committed not to talk about myself. It would be all about them. If the conversation started to be about me I would as artfully as possible redirect it back to them. After a while I gained more skill. Another requirement in my plan was that we would never leave one date without scheduling the next as there was no set day or time. Nor did I ever share what I was doing with them. My wife has since passed away. After her passing I did a Tedx Presentation “Promises Made, Promises Kept” detailing the “date” process and rationale. I am ever so thankful for making it not about me a priority.

Thanks so much for the reminder..