This morning I had breakfast with my children. It was a different morning to yesterday when I had breakfast with an old colleague of mine. It was a wonderful experience just to chat and debate this future of mine and hear in the words of somebody else that this move of mine is possible. The other great thing is that this person is a role model – he too made a life decision and gave up his employment. He has ended up in a far better environment, doing things that excite and challenge him and thoroughly enjoying life. That was yesterday, this morning was very different. There were no deep discussions or in depth sharing of values. No, this morning was all out testosterone, grunting and laughter. A bout of serious rough and tumble! I think as fathers we often forget how important it is to play with our children. I don’t mean just play, but rather pure uninhibited play. We really had fun. I felt like more of a father for just having fun with my kids than I have in ages. The best thing was there was no right way to do it and no instructions to be given, it was just fun.

A theme that has come up in a number of conversations in the recent past has been about children and their upbringing. I recently heard of an informal study of great CEO’s. The only commonality amongst these people was their traumatic or difficult childhoods. It would seem that greatness comes from within. It would also seem that some people who have had to struggle through their early years develop an ability to really do amazing things. I assume that not everyone who has a traumatic childhood develops this inner strength – the point is some are able to make it regardless of their circumstances and influences. The corollary interests me - I did not have a traumatic childhood – does this mean that I will not become a great leader? The same question can be asked of my children. I am making this major life change to benefit my children by being a real father and getting involved in their lives. Am I reducing their chances of being truly great leaders by giving them the best possible childhood (loving family environment)? There is some food for thought!!