I started my week with a unique twist. My boss forgot to send the meeting invite for our weekly catch-up.
Typically, our Sunday meetings are scheduled for an hour, though they often exceed this timeframe. It’s worth mentioning that we operate on a hybrid model, allowing us the flexibility to work from home on Sundays and be present in the office for the remainder of the week.
My scheduled weekly status meeting with our CFO usually starts at 9:15 AM. After grabbing breakfast at 8:45 AM, I received a message from my boss acknowledging the missed invite but suggesting we proceed with the discussion nonetheless. I proposed a slight delay to begin at 9:30, to which he agreed.
Our meetings typically kick off with casual banter about our weekends, setting the tone for the discussion ahead. It’s similar to the opening of a podcast or radio show, establishing rapport before diving into business matters. This ritual usually consumes a good five minutes before we delve into the agenda.
Initially, I didn’t maintain a structured list of topics for discussion. However, as my tenure at the company extended, the scope of issues and events requiring attention expanded. This prompted me to develop my own framework for tracking and organizing these matters. I must say, it’s proven effective in ensuring we address the topics I deem essential.
In the past, I viewed our weekly one-on-one as a daunting and draining obligation. However, recently, I’ve come to appreciate its value. It serves as a catalyst for kickstarting the week’s momentum, offering an opportunity to fine-tune my to-do list and provide progress updates on ongoing projects.
Reflecting on the purpose of this catch up meeting, I’ve recognized its applicability to our daily lives. Just as we hold status meetings at work, it’s important to check in with family members, spouse and kids, and friends regularly. While it doesn’t necessarily need to be weekly, maintaining a consistent schedule based on everyone’s availability fosters communication and connection.
In the whirlwind of our daily routines, setting aside an hour for a catch-up meeting can feel like a daunting task, but the rewards are plentiful. By investing time in these sessions, we’re not just checking boxes; we’re sowing the seeds of communication that will bloom over time. It’s akin to tending to a garden – the more attention we give it, the more fruitful the outcome. Despite the challenges posed by our busy schedules, making room for these gatherings is essential for nurturing connections and fostering a culture of collaboration. So, while it may require some juggling and prioritizing, the benefits of these catch-ups far outweigh the time invested, ultimately enriching both our personal and professional lives.
After today’s catch-up meeting with my boss, I treated myself to a luxurious cup of French-pressed coffee. As I savored each sip, I not only felt prepared for the week ahead but also carried with me a newfound appreciation for the significance of regular check-ins. Moments like these remind us of the value in keeping open communication and staying connected, both professionally and personally. Here’s to more productive meetings and meaningful connections in the days to come!
