Time, money and quality of life

With a partner on my side, the next questions were time and money.

First, I am fortunate that I have a fantastic group of staff and an eminent day-to-day manager, and an excellent board who, in my place, can act as an anchor for crucial decisions. There could be questions about the more scientific and theoretical things about our tools, software and data that could require my attention, but most of such issues could be dealt with via the Internet. So, there were no real obstacles on that front, and then there was the money. I think that needs its very own explanation.

A few years ago, I decided to pull down an old shed and instead build a new shed in the garden where my grandchildren could sleep and play when they come to visit. After shed was done and well used, I asked the carpenter who made it, to look at some aspects of the roof on the house itself. He did, and said: “Finn, you need a new roof on your house!”

It was also vaguely in my mind. If there was snow around the chimney, as it melted, some water would leak down the wall inside the living room. However, the few times it had happened, I have sorted it with a can of tar. So, it was not that bad.

In any case, I thought about it and decided to take a little money out of the company to replace the roof, but then Joep’s question popped up in my mind. Would I be happier having a new roof? Not really! Would the value of the house increase? Barely! And the last question: Upon my departure from this life, would my children then be happier if there is a new roof on the house? I don’t think so.

So, the option to spend the money on a sabbatical year where you travel around the world and play incredible golf courses together with the one you love, popped up.

Do what make you happy! And, Finn, do it now while you have no physical and mental infirmities and can still play reasonable golf. Say no more – the decision was taken.