Family is Everything

How Darrell Makes Time for His Family

Before purchasing Berkeley Dental Laboratory on Jan. 1 2008, I had much to consider. First, we were in the middle of the Great Recession, and many people attempted to persuade me not to purchase the lab because of the economic downturn we were facing. Second, I had a growing family. We had two daughters: a 2- and 1-year-old. Then that June, my wife and I were expecting our third daughter. There was a lot going on in my life and it was important to make the right decision for us.

Even though I had my concerns, I decided to buy the laboratory. My family supported my decision, and I couldn’t have done it without them. My dad encouraged me to continue following my dream of becoming a business owner. My mother helped my wife with our three toddlers when I was at the lab. Today, my wife stays at home and ensures everything runs smoothly at the house. With my wife doing an awesome job at home with the girls, I’m able to tackle each day with a clear mind — I get to put all my focus on my work to make sure all of you are getting the restorations and service you need. I can’t thank her enough for her hard work and the sacrifices she’s made for our family.

Although running a business is a huge responsibility and takes a lot of my time, I can schedule my work in advance to make time for what’s important for us. It allows me to be with my family whenever I want — family is everything. I make it a point to schedule weekly family time. Now, since our three older girls are in high school, they are able to watch our youngest daughter, who is in the second grade.

Every Friday evening, my wife and I schedule time to spend together without the kids. We will go out to eat, catch a movie, or do an activity we have always wanted to do. Then, every weekend is family time. We will take the girls to do anything they want — I’m just happy we all get to hang out as a family.

Every single day, I make sure to talk with my girls about how their day went. I am adamant about spending time with my.daughters, because I want them to know I will always be there for them. I attend all their performances for their school and drop off my youngest daughter at school every day. I want to provide an example of how they should expect to be treated later when they are off living on their own. People ask me all the time how I am able to find time to be with my daughters in the mornings before school and still attend all their after-school functions while running a business. It’s not about how much time I put in my work, but what I do with my time while I am at work. I make sure to maximize my time at work to make time for family. No matter how my work days are, it’s all worth it when I spend time with my family. I’m grateful for them every day.

In honor of Sept. 16, National Working Parents Day, I want to recognize other working parents who juggle professional and personal life daily. Your hard work and dedication don’t go unnoticed, and you’re doing a great job. I resonate with all of you because I understand how difficult dividing your time can be. So, this day is for you! If you have any strategies for making time for work and family life, I would love to hear from you!