A couple of weeks ago I went out to go for a cycle along the river after lunch, something that is turning a bit into a habit. What I hope will never turn into a habit is that I locked myself out. I had my cycling helmet and my mobile phone – but no money and no keys to our flat (nor to the bike shed).
My daughter was at nursery, my husband at work in Central London. I called him in a bit of panic, but he said could not be home before the nursery closed (yep, a deadline). So I’d have to pick up a toddler who is used to getting a bottle or two as soon as she gets home – but I had no bottle nor could I take her home.
I called a friend whose son goes to the same nursery and she said it’d be ok for me to crash at theirs with my daughter till my husband would get home. Tick, sorted.
But what would I do with myself all afternoon with no money, no bicycle and no laptop? After all I’m in the process of setting up my own consulting business. Should I take a full afternoon off just like that?? What should I do now???
With no bicycle but lots of sunshine I decided to walk to the river. I passed by the market, thinking about the food shopping I had intended to do on the way back. But I had no money on me. It is weird when you’re out of bread for breakfast, want to buy some but have no money*. It’s bread – not some expensive shit you don’t actually need…
But the river around here is a really nice place. Lots of old trees, water, ducks, kids playing and the occasional rowing boat passing by.
My favourite spot along the river Thames in Kingston
I sat on one of the benches facing the water and arranged a work call for later that day via email, glad I had my phone with me. Then I checked a couple of other work things on the internet and texted a couple of friends. Because I had time.
After that I walked for a while north-east along the Thames till I sign suggested I take a decision.
In which direction should I go?
And so I stopped on another bench and just took the day in – the nature, the nice weather, people passing by. With birds tweeting in the background I took my call, then stopped to enjoy the day a little longer.
I walked back with a smile on my face, relaxed. Life was good – I have a loving family, friends who care and a community of people around me who make our lives better.
This is why I am setting up my own business and am striving for Financial Independence – I want the flexibility of taking an afternoon off with no boss making my life difficult because of that. After all, when did you think you’d like to stop working at least for a while?
The following day I made a spare copy of my keys and gave it to my friend, for my peace of mind. But I know I’ll be just fine next time I lock myself out.
*We had some lovely yogurt for breakfast the following day.
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