Writing editorials every few weeks for a technical mailing list has been one of the more challenging responsibilities in my (nearly) two years with Redgate as an advocate working with Steve, Grant, and Louis. Each week, it’s interesting for me to see the mix of technical insights and everyday life stuff that each of us think about and share. It’s equally interesting and encouraging to see what you, the readers, engage with, too. One thing’s for sure, we’re not just a group of one-dimensional database geeks.

Which is why I was encouraged by Grant’s Database weekly editorial last week. It struck a (good) nerve for me. Sometimes you just need a reminder that there’s more to life than a keyboard and data. One thing I’ve been better about over the last year is listening to audio books by investing in an Audible account. While I’m not opposed to a good fiction book now and again, you’ll mostly find my library full of non-fiction books, including research and biographies.

Of particular interest in recent months has been a series of books focusing on raising children in this fast-paced, always-on world. As a father of six children, it feels more pertinent with each passing year.

My most recent book, started on recommendation from a friend, is “The Anxious Generation” by Jonathan Haidt. I’m not done with it yet, so I can’t give you a full review, but it’s been eye-opening on several fronts. None, however, has been more compelling than the impact of our digital, phone-based society on the youngest among us. There are numerous findings in the book and accompanying data that have caused me to start asking similar questions to Grant’s challenge last week. Don’t get me wrong, we’re a tight-knit family, that loves to adventure together, immerse ourselves in rich stories, and create together.

But still, I’ve been very challenged with how focused and available I am for my children when we share the same space. How attuned I am to the nuances of their individual experiences? How well do I model the truth that a digital screen is never more important than undistracted eye contact and open, focused ears? The time goes fast, and I want to choose them, and other people close to me, over and above the plethora of screens around me all day long.

There’s no guilt trip intended in this brief thought for the parents and non-parents alike. I’ve just been compelled to think long and hard about how I manage my time and prioritize the people and things that matter. My time with them isn’t unlimited. It’s a finite resource, but it’s easy to lose track of that. I love technology and data, and I even love teaching my kids about both, but I think it might be time to close this laptop, turn off the phone for the afternoon, and go play outside for a bit… even on a rainy day like today. 😊

Will you join me?