"Lean in" or make jam?

I was inspired by a conversation last night. In fact by many of them. However one stuck out in terms of new thoughts.

We were talking about the balance of work and family and hobbies. It's a never ending debate, filled with decisions and consequences. It's such a good topic, and all of us had something to say on it.

I have a few friends who work part time, and they protect this fiercely. I have never made this choice, but until I actually manage to work a 40hr week, who am I kidding that I can work part time?

My part time working friends often talk about their choice and why it matters to them.  It is a big deal and they have had to really fight in some cases to protect it. Without exception, all of them have been very conscious in their choice and are fully aware that this may sadly impact their career. However the pay offs are so much greater, than this temporary and unfortunate downside.  And listening to them, I agree.

When one friend offered me a beautiful jar of home made jam, with a lovely hand written label, I got it.  She explained how she had made this and multiple others in her days off.
How absolutely wonderful.

It was this jar of jam, that was so vibrant and delicious looking, that to me was the symbol of pleasure and that scare resource of simple "time".  The jam was a symbol of passion not obligation.  Of hobbies not work.  Of home not corporate. Of pleasure not politics.  Of  love not like. Of jam and not emails.

Should these people "lean in" as often advised and step up the corporate ladder right now, no way. No way at all.

Lean in. My arse. Make jam I say!