A Life Of Balance

Mastering life is learning to balance the extremes.

Specifically, this extreme for me is learning to not overwork myself. Putting so much focus, energy and time can be mentally overwhelming if not properly balanced with the joys of life and the experiences the journey brings. Living in Miami these past few years I can tell you that here, most people need to practice the opposite of myself. Beach lovers with vacation lifestyles want everything easy, including work with high benefits.

But if you are like me, let’s talk about learning not to burn ourselves out. At the same time, we can’t stay too long on the other side that we lose our motivation. Where is this sweet spot? How do we live there? 

I am learning to schedule these things. That sounds so… basic, nerdy, unromantic, unenjoyable, and so on. I have learned to embrace that if it’s not written down the likelihood of it getting done is a good zero. This is the first year since college I’ve bought a daily organizer and used it. It’s been very helpful with my tasks, meetings, and setting priorities. Now I just need to remember to pencil in bath time, spa time, reading, drawing, and other self-care activities. Because life is short. What is reaching our goals if there is no meaning to it?

Another thing that has helped in my learning curb is ridding myself of those unnecessary distractions. I believe we can become consumed in all work no play because often we see the neon green grass of social media. Watching others do those things I’ve dreamed of at times makes me feel I’m not doing “enough”. Then I take on more than I can chew in a sense. Listen, if it makes you resentful of your life more than inspired, it’s not adding value. Your journey is different than others even if what they are doing is possibly similar. Be inspired but don’t get stuck in unhealthy comparison. It’s been a learning curve on my part to limit my time here. 

Lastly, if you aren’t good at giving yourself boundaries, surround yourself with some accountability that will! There is nothing like divine friendships that allow you to walk in purpose, be pushed, but also say, “you need to put the brakes on girl”. When you don’t know how to say no, a good friend or mentor will help you stay in the right median. 

We won’t drift too far into work when we have boundaries and reminders to enjoy reality. Whatever that extreme in life for you is, figure out a good balance. While the urge may still be there to favor a side, you won’t veer far off track with the proper anchors in position. Work hard, but don’t forget to enjoy why you work.