My Paris Experiment

I spent the month of September in Paris.

My intention was to "test drive" the idea of living where I want to live while continuing to do the work I love to do.

TL:DR - it was a very successful experiment.

But, as with all experiments, it's only useful if it's examined for what worked, what didn't and what learning ensued.

Caveat: I am an owner of a business that is virtual, I do work that is portable and mobile, and my kids are fully independent. I recognize the privilege and flexibility that I have that are not as fully enjoyed by others. That said, I believe we all have more choices than most of us exercise.

What worked

With most of my clients typically scheduled in the mornings when I'm on Eastern time, the time difference meant that I worked afternoons. That left my mornings for exploring and writing and admin activities as needed. I occasionally worked into the evening, but not so often that it felt burdensome.

I was active, inspired, intellectually stimulated and awestruck constantly.

I didn't turn on a television. Not once.

I reinvigorated my meditation practice.

I met new people, explored creative activities and challenged myself in numerous ways (scootering through Paris morning rush hour traffic is not for the faint of heart!).

I had great conversations with new people about life, the world, work and leadership (amongst many other things) and as a result have new ideas and plans for my business.

What didn't work

I found it hard to work "on" the business. Partly that was a logistical issue - over the month I was there I stayed in a couple of different places and only one had a good work desk/chair set-up.

More so, though, I was gloriously distracted by and revelling in just being in my favourite city, and as a result was pretty easily enticed out for activities and adventures (pétanque anyone? yet another of the extraordinary art collections or galleries? a delicious meal, or a glass of wine in a cafe? Oui!) when I'd otherwise planned to be doing admin or marketing or strategic planning. In other words, the non-business temptations were, well, very tempting. And yes, I succumbed more often than not.

Other than posting photos about my adventures for the benefit of my friends and family, I pretty much stayed off social media - which means you, my LinkedIn audience, didn't hear from me. I hope you're still out there...

What I learned

Part of what was magical about this experiment was that, for the first time in over 25 years, I had no one to take care of except myself. Even if it's "just" a house and a dog, my default is to prioritize care of others before care for myself. With no other responsibilities I was able to create some good habits and connect with who I am beyond those numerous roles. Now it's up to me to maintain those good habits as I re-enter my "normal" life.

Being in an environment that feeds my soul makes everything - everything - easier and better. It makes me better at my work, it fuels ideas for growth and focus, it clarifies values and solidifies priorities.

Walking. I mean, seriously. Walking was the only exercise I got for the entire month and I feel better than I've felt in years. Now, to be fair, many days I did a TON of walking, but still...

Staying off of screens - well, despite all the noise about how bad they are for us, I underestimated how impactful it would be to virtually eliminate them from my life for a period of time. Wow.

Most of the people who knew I did this congratulated me and expressed some degree of envy - as if I had done something that feels out of reach for them. I think that this says more about about how trapped or without options most people believe themselves to be than it says about me and my particular life and choices.

What can you take away from my experiment?

If your employees are resisting coming back to the office, please just ask them why - and really listen to their answers. Many people have relocated to environments where they genuinely feel better, and my experiment says that if that's the case they'll likely be better at their work. (And yes, I know there are other issues at play on this topic, but relocation is one aspect and it deserves greater understanding, in my view).

Leaders - plan breaks, space and time for reflection and inspiration. You'll be energized and bring your best self back into your role, I promise you.

If you are a caregiver, or have caregivers that work for you - be mindful of the slippery slope that can end in burnout. The mental load of caregiving is as taxing as the logistical and emotional loads. Lead by example by prioritizing self-care, and be supportive of that same prioritization when others do it.

Break your routine. Get out of your rut. Mix up your stimuli.

Walk. And then walk some more.

Mostly, try the crazy idea. It just might work.