I've heard it said and seen it written by many, "I don't believe in life balance." When people explain why they don't believe in it, it's clear they don't understand what balance really means. I'm going to set the record straight so you have a better idea of what you're aiming for should you decide to pursue life balance.
What does it really mean to balance your life or achieve work/life balance? The first step to understanding "balance" is recalibrating your idea of what it does and does not mean. Balancing your checkbook, for example, does not mean you spend the same amount you brought in. It means you accurately account for what you spent and brought in. A balanced diet does not mean you eat just as much meat as you do vegetables. It means you eat appropriate proportions of the foods that will supply your body with the correct level of nutrients needed to function properly. The proper proportions will change with your age, environment, the quality of your food, your health goals, and other factors.
Life balance or work/life balance does not mean equal parts work and equal personal life. It means appropriate energy and attention where it belongs. And it means accurately accounting for what you "spend" and "earn" in relation to your investment—emotionally, physically, mentally, spiritually, and financially/materially. The proper balance and priorities may change based on what's happening and what's needed in different areas of your life. Just had a baby? That part of your life will need a bigger investment. Just lost or landed the biggest business deal of your career? Good chance you're going to need to invest more of yourself in that area. Your relationship just went on the rocks? Going back to school? Each of those things is going to require a lot of energy and "nutrients."
Life balance is really about making the adjustments that are needed to keep things stable, healthy, flowing, and growing. You may make those adjustments in spurts, or you may need to make them continuously. Either way, the best-case scenario is that you make them consciously as you shift your positions in life. Otherwise, you'll lose your balance and something will have to give. Maintain mindfulness about what you need to shift and when. This includes recognizing when and if you need to let something go to prevent it from unpredictably giving way and bringing down other things in your life or business along with it.
So, if you've given up on the idea o life balance, do yourself a favor. Rethink your position. Periodically reexamine what your life needs to be healthy, fulfilling, or whatever it is you want it to be. Keep exploring new ways to meet those needs.
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