Finding Harmony in a Busy World
If you are on a quest to achieve the elusive work-life balance—know that you are not alone, so many people feel overwhelmed by the demands of both career and personal life. However, we can’t lose sight of the fact that life is dynamic, and so are our priorities and values. Between work and household duties, taking care of children and trying to nurture relationships, there will always be unforeseen challenges and events that derail our carefully made plans, leaving us frustrated and back at what feels like the starting line. But the key to creating harmony is to adopt a value-based mindset that acknowledges the ebb and flow of responsibilities while seeking fulfillment from moment to moment. Values are meant to guide us toward a sustainable path in every aspect of life, and if we follow that guidance, a sense of balance is not far behind.
That is why I choose to challenge the notion of trying to achieve a static equilibrium altogether. Because the truth is, the concept of a perfect balance between our professional and personal lives is somewhat of a myth. Instead of aiming for a balance of time, my goal has become to cultivate a balanced and value-based mindset. For me, that means prioritizing meaningful relationships and joy and as often as possible.
Rather than fixating on a rigid schedule, focus on staying present and attuned to the signs that indicate a misalignment. These might manifest as strained relationships, physical deterioration, feelings of depression, a lack of personal boundaries, or a pervasive sense that whatever you are engaged in, you should be doing something else. Chronic stress, burnout, or dissatisfaction serve as signals, prompting a shift in priorities or a reassessment of how time and energy is allocated.
Taking the time to uncover your personal values, allows you to identify your priorities, and to separate out what matters most to you from the morals and ethics you adhere to. A sustainable value-based mindset involves embracing the understanding that certain periods may demand more attention to work, while others require a deeper investment in personal well-being. They may guide you to consider larger overall changes or to see that smaller adjustments can make the difference. But either way, it’s about flexibility, adaptability, and recognizing that life is a series of evolving priorities. True balance comes from relishing the small victories, savoring moments with loved ones, and appreciating personal accomplishments. It’s about navigating the complexities with resilience and a commitment to well-being.
To cultivate this mindset, start by identifying your values. What brings you joy? What adds meaning to your life? Once these values are clear, align your daily choices with them, and prioritize that which resonates most with your core beliefs, be it spending quality time with family, pursuing personal passions, or excelling in your career.
If you are interested in learning more about how your values can create harmony in your work life balance, or if you would like me to speak to your organization about fostering a sustainable value-based mindset, please reach out to me.
Have Chris as a guest speaker.
Contact me if you are interested in having me speak to your organization about how values shape us, and
the transformative influence of making decisions aligned with personal values.
