My Favorite ... Safe Haven. Family Oasis

It's said that having children changes your life. Never has a cliche been more understated.

When my son, Jared, was born six-and-a-half years ago, it was as if someone "rebooted" my life. News of the event reverberated up and down the Eastern Seaboard (my wife and I will be celebrating our 22nd anniversary this year and a baby was unexpected amongst the family), and the parent gene kicked into high gear.

There is nothing quite like the smile and excitement when he jumps into my arms screaming, "Daddyyy!!!" Whatever issues or troubles I was having at work suddenly disappear. Seeing the world unfold through his eyes and being part of that discovery process is the most precious part of my life.

We all need a "safe haven" to come home to. For me, my wife and son are that oasis. They replenish my soul and remind me what life is all about. They are my foundation, bringing me balance and greater patience, which has made me a better manager by giving me greater satisfaction in my professional life. And while I may not tell them often enough, my family is - unequivocally - my most favorite thing in life.