Balance in all things all the time - Does it really exist?
Jun 22,2015
As a student, a parent, and employee I've given up on buying into the idea that it is possible to be all things to all people all the time.
The reality of my world is that it is super messy, although having a day planner is helpful, it never accounts for the unexpected.
One of the best ways I learned to embrace the occasional chaos was to come to terms with my idea of balancing it all.
In my mind, balancing it all meant accomplishing everything on my list in one day. If you've ever tried this you'll find it is nearly impossible and completely exhausting! During this transition I met a professor who said the most profound thing during class, she said, "Balance doesn't exist."
She (*see link below) went on to describe her life, particularly the life of women in academia, as a constant juggling act. What caught my attention was her honesty with the entire class. She admitted to being a ball dropping juggler! She told our class that she often drops balls (missing a deadline here and there, or forgetting to attend a staff meeting...) BUT she NEVER drops her most prized possession ball - her family.
According to her, everything bounces back BUT that one ball she always keeps in the air.
After my professor described life this way I was able to relax more and continue living my life acknowledging what really matters to me. I also learned to love my adventurous juggling life without worrying about keeping my balance all the time.
What/who symbolizes your prized possession juggling ball?
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