"Happiness is not a matter of intensity but of balance and order and rhythm and harmony." — Thomas Merton
Balance seems like the perfect prescription for our chaotic world. But who hasn't felt pulled in multiple directions; emotionally, physically, mentally, spiritually? It's a perpetual juggling act between family and work obligations.
We're bombarded with expert advice: eat kale, do yoga, walk, lift weights, go organic, eliminate sugar, get more sleep. And do it all while raising a family and managing a demanding job. It's enough to make you want to cover your ears.
What do you choose? Do you go for a walk instead of doing the dishes? Do you appreciate the fullness of your life instead of focusing on what you lack? Do you love yourself as much as you love others?
The last few months, life came at me full force. Events challenged my sense of self and direction. When any aspect of life draws disproportionate energy, something gets shortchanged. That's when I realized what I was missing:
Grace to just "be" and not "do." You don't always need to be getting stuff done. Sometimes it's perfectly okay and absolutely necessary to slow down, kick back, and do something just for you.
Living a balanced life is about integrating what's truly important to you and realizing that sometimes you need to make choices about what comes first.
The wonderful thing is that we have a choice. The hardest thing is also that we have a choice.
I'm learning to make self-care a priority and not waiver. My revelation: the distractions and commitments will always be there waiting. When we're clear about what we want and who we want to be, that clarity fuels our motivation.
Whatever we focus on grows.
Simple Daily Practices
- Reflect — Take a few minutes to let your mind unwind
- Move — Get oxygen into your body and brain
- Laugh — Find humor in daily life
- Appreciate — Note what you're grateful for
- Let go — Release grievances, forgive, move forward
A Question for You
What small step can you take that will allow more gentle and unforced rhythms of grace to flow in your life?
I don't want to live on autopilot. I want to consciously pause and reflect on what works, what I want to change, and what I want to continue. Making reflection part of our mindset means we're committed to doing better.
"In a world of noise, confusion and conflict it is necessary that there be places of silence, inner discipline and peace. In such places love can blossom." — Thomas Merton
