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Busy vs. Important: Making Time for What Matters Most

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Busy-Important

 "Some of the most important things in life are the least urgent, like calling a friend, that's not urgent. There's always something urgent that can take preeminence over some deep, important relationship."

This piece of wisdom came from Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky, who I was not familiar with as a leader (his company of course), until I listened to him on Adam Grant's amazing Work Life podcast (one of my favorite podcasts right now.)

We like to think of ourselves as "busy", always having things to do, places to go. But the question is are we busy with the "right things", or are we taking time for the "right things" on our calendars?

It's true that when life is done, no one is going to say, "I wish I spent more time at the office, I wish I hadn't done that vacation or celebrated that person." It's relationships that make life rich. And even when they don't seem "urgent", they are "important" and valuable and worth it.

Maybe today is a great day to make plans with friends. . . I don't think you'll regret it.

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About the author

Mike Penninga

Mike Penninga

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Mike considers himself very fortunate to have been born and raised in Kelowna where he lives with his wife and kids.  He has spent 3 decades in leadership in both non-profit and for-profit organizations.   He has supported leadership development alongside numerous organizations, including the City of Kelowna, Predator Ridge Resort, the Kelowna Yacht Club, Okanagan College, Oak Bay Beach Hotel, the City of Pitt Meadows, Westbank First Nations, Refresh Financial, The Web Advisors Marketing Agency, and Compassion Canada.  

He completed his Undergrad and Masters education at Trinity Western University, along with a Diploma in Broadcast Journalism from BCIT.  

His passion is helping create environments where people can encounter their "aha" moment that leads to personal growth and development.  A professional speaker and communicator in small and large environments, Mike brings humor and humanity to every space he gets invited into. He has extensive knowledge and experience in one on one coaching and team facilitation, and is excited to build out a customized plan that will add value to your organization.  

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Saturday, 06 December 2025