Personal Wealth

Ahh, tax season...the W-2s...the 1099s...the deductions...the REFUND!!

Over the years, my taxes have become increasingly more complicated, so I go to see my favorite CPA, Herman.  We were sitting in front of his computer this evening, looking at "Schedule E", or "A", or "S"...  He was asking me about expenses, specifically those related to work.  There were the standard items such as "Rent", "Travel", "Supplies"...I could think of nothing to claim as deductions, as my travel expenses are all reimbursed, mailing expenses covered, etc.  I racked my brain...

...and then I noticed that one of the items on the form was "Depletion".  So I said to Herman: "I am significantly depleted when I come home after one of these meetings/speaking engagements/constulting trips.  How can we put a dollar amount on my personal wear-and-tear?  On emotional distress?" 

We had a good laugh at that!  And that completely sums up the point I have come to in my life:  There is no such thing as "hazard pay"...and even if there was...it wouldn't compensate for the life I am missing out on by over-extending myself for "the love of vascular ultrasound, community and society".

I have been making great strides in personal growth over the past several months...making room for more in life than work-related strengths and accomplishments.  In 12 years as a vascular technologist I have accomplished a great deal and done good things for the vascular community and society.  However, I have also invested more of myself in work and extra projects than I actually had in my possession to give away.  Working toward a change in the ratio of life...with careful thought and purpose... will allow for more activities, health, love and fun than I have known...along with a better balance of the things I love about vascular (teaching, writing, etc.).  It is truly an exciting time for me!

Time is more valuable to me than it has ever been, and I am embracing life again...LOVING life again!