Cup of Inspiration

Today I read an article in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution regarding a man who was instrumental in bringing internet access to American homes in the 1980’s, but whose name is unknown by most people. While Dale Heatherington could have pursued name recognition and more riches, he instead relished a quiet life with his wife, pursuing the joys of working with electronics.

If you are Generation X or a Baby Boomer, you will remember those modems that would allow computer users to connect to the Internet with their phones (landline phones, another technology that is also becoming a distant memory.) Dennis Hayes and Dale Heatherington co-founded Hayes Microcomputer Products. This company at one point had an exceptionally large market share for retail modems. The company eventually went out of business in 1999 as technology continued to evolve, including cable providers entering this segment of the market. Prior to the company going out of business, though, these two entrepreneurs made millions.

Heatherington could have taken a fancy job title as the company’s cofounder and holder of patents. Instead, he held the title Senior Design Engineer. He could have insisted that his name be part of the company name, but he did not want name recognition. As the company was still growing, he chose to retire at the age of thirty-six. While the payout he received was never publicly disclosed, it is known it was in the millions. He simply walked away because he was tired of the pace.

Rather than spending his millions on fancy houses, cars, and travelling the world to stay in expensive resorts, he chose a different path. He remained here in metro Atlanta. Instead of fine dining, he preferred fast food. He enjoyed a simple, quiet life.

He continued pursuing his joy of working with electronics. He became active in the Atlanta Hobby Robot Club, where he interacted with fellow enthusiasts. This brought more joy than spending time with the rich and famous in the city ever would.

Heatherington passed away in 2021. Now, three years later, he will be inducted into the hall of fame at the Computer Museum of America. He would have never sought this kind of recognition while he was alive. Those who were a part of his life, though, and pleased to have his story remembered for generations to come.

This name recognition was not a part of his life, but he chose something better. He chose to enjoy his love of electronics and computers over fame and fortune. He chose to help teach young people to appreciate their skills in this area, rather than worry about his name being on a billboard for all the world to see.

Remember that companies will come and go. Jobs will be there one minute and gone the next. The top star today will be a distant memory in the future. Enjoying time with those you love is more important than name recognition. Spending time on work that brings you pleasure is far better than working to support a certain lifestyle. Do not worry about how the world says you are supposed to spend your money. Never mind what society defines as success.

Do you want to spend your energy pursuing fortune and recognition from people who will not remember you a year from now? Or would you rather spend that energy on work you enjoy with the people who love you and will remember you years from now?