In a world where discussions about striking a work/life balance echo from boardrooms to living rooms and few people seem to find the perfect mix, one high profile executive has spoken out in words and actions.
Drawing a line in the sand in favor of tipping the scales toward life, Google CFO Patrick Pichette announced his retirement March 10.
After nearly seven years at the top of Google’s power structure and about 30 in the working world, the highly successful financial executive penned a public resignation full of advice.
Posted directly on his Google+ page, the missive poignantly narrates just how one of America’s most richly paid executives came to the conclusion it was time to stop trying to strike a work-life balance in favor of simply striking out to enjoy life.
The revelation that sparked Pichette’s departure came to him on top of Africa’s Mt. Kilimanjaro. While taking in the view with his wife of nearly 25 years, she suggested the two just keep going. When Pichette replied the time wasn’t right, Tamar Pichette’s simple response stuck.
“So when is it going to be time? Our time? My time?”
While Pichette gave her a “typical prudent CFO type response,” the question continued to echo in his head. “Happily” back at work several weeks later, it still hung in the air, demanding a more heartfelt answer.
That answer was made public on March 10 with a detailed explanation from Pichette that he wasn’t looking for sympathy, but rather wanted to share his thought process since so many “struggle to strike the right balance between work and personal life.”
With their children grown, the couple’s 25th anniversary right around the corner and after nearly 1,500 weeks of working a “frenetic pace,” Pichette simply came to the conclusion the time for striving to strike a balance was over.
“In the end, life is wonderful, but nonetheless a series of tradeoffs, especially between business/professional endeavors and family/community,” he wrote. “And thankfully, I feel I’m at a point in my life where I no longer have to have to make such tough choices anymore. And for that I am truly grateful. Carpe Diem.”
While Pichette’s departure will not be immediate as Google seeks an appropriate replacement, his words struck a chord with Google’s CEO and co-founder Larry Page, who reposted the resignation to his own Google+ page with these words, “A most unconventional leaving notice from a most unconventional CFO. It will warm your heart.”
