Moving forward sometimes means going backwards!

A wise man said something to me today: "Moving forward sometimes means going backwards"! 

It made some sense at the time.  It is really hitting home now, a couple hours later!

We were catching up at lunch; talking about family, jobs/work, etc. I mentioned I sometimes feel like I'm spinning my wheels and not moving forward (about work things).  His question: "What does moving forward mean"?

Good question!  I stumbled a bit and finally came to this answer.  In my world of graphic and web design, moving forward means new projects, new things/designs/ideas to work with, etc.  I need some forward movement to remain interested/creative. 

He then answered me with his own thought that moving forward sometimes meant going backwards - or at least looking backwards. 

My friend has worked in several industries for large and small companies.  The past couple of years he worked for small businesses and had become increasingly unhappy with what he was doing for a living.

Last year on a trip 'home' to visit realatives, he had a chance to look around his home town.  He told me about houses remodeled, streets changed, store fronts gone, etc.  He realized, that simpler time might just be what he was looking for. 

With only a few years left until he officially retires, he decided to just go get a job doing something for someone else.  He clocks in, works, and clocks out. Then he goes home to enjoy his family and hobbies without carrying the stress of work with him.

And I have to tell you...  he looks great and he seems relaxed and "happy"! 

For my friend - "going backward" was how he moved "forward". 

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