I remember working, really working eleven and twelve hour days. You would "punch" out and then head into your life or day. If you were fortunate you were heading to those moments you worked so hard to have, but often you went straight into the daily needs and responsibilities. Eager for the so called weekend or day off to catch up with loved ones, do new things, eat a favorite food or delve into a moment to de-stress. Nothing here out of the norm and you hope that this leads you to continued growth and continued moments of fulfillment.
I am now working sixteen and seventeen hour days by definition. What fascinates me is that by the perspective of my heart, mind and soul I don't work at all. In that same way that your body is technically working when it breathes air. There are no moments searching for when it will end, to move on to the next moment of the day. There is only the experience of doing what bring both stress with fulfillment, exhaustion and excitement and a continued sense of wonder. It's a sip of the fountain that brings a perpetual youth.
I have read and heard the words "Do what you love and you will never work another day of you life" but like many, given this to be propaganda of the crazy. The crazy though, seem to have a way of finding truth. I wish there were more hours in the day but for different reasons than most times before.
There is so much life and joy to experience. There are equally as many challenges that would seemingly out weigh those moments but many good foods are made with ranges of spice. I enjoy being able to taste and live the emotional passions without them ruling me. Passions can be the instrument of beautiful art.
Hopefully that is how you get to measure your day.
Namaste