In a move that surprised very few people who know me, I have joined a Grateful Dead tribute band. Jerry Garcia once said that the Grateful Dead were “like black licorice; not everyone like it, but the people who like it REALLY like black licorice.” Now, I can’t stand black licorice, but I’m a big fan of the Dead. For the probably small percentage of you who feel likewise, I’m filling the Bob Weir role, but hopefully with better fashion choices.

Now that we’ve gotten the geekiness out of the way….

So I’ve been in bands before, some better than others. What makes this different is that this was an established band, and for the first time I can recall, I am in a band that I’m not in charge of. In the past, I’ve handled bookings, equipment, and the cat-herding process of creating rehearsal schedules. With this band, that’s all under control, and all I have to do is play. 

That might not sound like a huge deal, but I draw the parallel with my business. I have an awesome crew of people here, and they can run this place without me - but that doesn’t change the fact that the buck stops at my desk, and all the major decisions still funnel through me. I love our business and my role here, but being in charge can grind you down if you aren't careful. It has been really fun, relaxing and gratifying to get involved with this band in part because I’m NOT the boss. It has given me the freedom to just DO something, without the need to be in charge of it.

For any of you that are in a management or ownership position, you are probably going to answer about 5,000 questions between now and Memorial Day. And that’s not all bad - but I encourage you to find some way to get out of a leadership position for a little while this spring. Maybe you can volunteer somewhere, or go work with a crew for a couple days - do something where you aren’t in charge. It will be good for your mental health, I guarantee. 

And since I have no shame, here's a short video from last weekend's gig