I'm Dying, What's Your Excuse?

Our business has a way of pulling us in and tricking us into believing it's not just our job -- it's our hobby; it's our passion! In large part, we tell this to ourselves to justify the fact that a majority of what we do is focus on our radio station, record label, or businesses we run in order to support ourselves.

Unfortunately, if you've been in our business at least five years, it sucks you in. You can try to get away from it, but it's almost impossible, and before you know it, you're 30-plus years in, and most of your life has been focused on what you do -- not who you are.

We develop excuses in order not to live our lives. "I have to get the Memorial Day music in!" "I have to manage the #1 run this weekend!" "I have to go see this client about a possible deal!"

The problem becomes we miss key, important moments in our and others' lives because of this. A sister's graduation ... your mother's birthday ... your child's baseball game ... all are pushed aside, because you have to make someone else a lot of money.

Eighteen months ago, I decided for the first time in my life, I was going to do something for myself! You see, I put my life on hold in order to make sure my radio station was always performing up to expectations in order to get the next job, promotion, or additional duties. I was successful beyond belief at this ... but very unsuccessful at taking care of myself and living life.

I walked away; I decided that I needed to put myself first. My excuse had to be so large to walk away from a 30-year career ... I was dying.

What's your excuse?

Chances are that you aren't dying, but you need to find the right excuse to break away an hour early to go see your mom or be there for your child's baseball game. Because, before you know it, your career will be over, and you'll be looking back saying, "I wish I would have..."

#IBelieveInMiracles ... not regrets.

With Scot Michaels, longtime friend and record exec currently with Morris Higham Management. Scot battled Sarcoma -- the cancer I'm currently battling -- many years ago. He's a true inspiration!

In West Palm Beach with Kenny Chesney and a Trip Around The Sun Tour. (L-R) WIRK/West Palm Beach PD Sammy Crusie, WIRK morning host Chelsea Taylor, WKIS/Miami PD John O'Connell, consultant Mike O'Malley and friends

In Daytona Beach with Dierks Bentley right before he headlines Country 500.

With WWKA/Orlando afternoon host AJ Maguire. I met AJ a few months ago; since then we've become great friends. He's a throwback to the days when I cut my teeth ... a real student of the business.

Reach out with comments, ideas, or your stories and photos to John Thomas:
Cell: (585) 469-0738 || JT@AllAccess.com
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