Balance. It's something I have preached for a long time now. The importance of family....friends....co-workers....mentors....so many who make up our own villages. The experiences. The memories. The moments. The ups and downs of it all. All of which helps with our balance.
But to be honest, balance in my life has always been a struggle. It has been one of my biggest struggles my entire life, even when I was younger. For most of my life, I've been on the go with everything. Back and forth between different things. Always trying to keep my mind going. Always looking to stay busy with something. Little to no time to sit back and breathe, sometimes going hours without just taking a minute to think and reflect about things because something just had to be done in the moment, even though it could've waited until the morning. While I am thankful for all that has come my way over the years, it has been draining at times.....especially in the past year. While I enjoy everything that I do, it's a lot to process...to understand...and to carry. And some days when people ask me how I do all that I do, I simply answer "I don't know".
Recently, I had a moment in my life that forced me to realize the importance of finding that balance. Coming to terms with that has not been easy, but it's necessary. I'm one who likes to get things done. Who enjoys working hard. Who has enjoyed taking on new challenges. But it becomes clear, that saying yes to everything, is not the answer to balance. It becomes draining and exhausting. It clouds your judgement. It impacts your way of making rational decisions or handling situations...even to the point you don't even fully realize what you are doing in moments. It could hurt people. It does all of that.
I spoke to a small business class at my alma matter recently for a coffee chat. The one big piece of advice that I gave to them multiple times was to find your balance. Not what others think your balance is....but your balance. Finding the little things that bring you joy, and benefit you solely first, not the other way around. Finding the things or people that make you smile and laugh. Find just that inner voice that reminds you to take a break and just breathe.
I am a giver. I've always been. That's in my DNA. That will never change. But I've learned recently that giving too much of yourself is not beneficial to anyone. It only hurts those around you. I've been learning more that it's ok to take a step back and say no to certain things or to change how we are doing them. Going 150% is not needed...just the typical 100% should do or the best to your ability. It hasn't been easy....but it's necessary.
I've been blessed to have so many great people come into my life....especially in the past year and several months. The experiences and memories have been all amazing. But most importantly, it's the people. Many who have inspired and motivated me. Many who I call friends and mentors. There are moments in life that make you realize that more than ever. In those moments, keep them in your village, even if it's from afar and in spirit. Keep them there...that is all apart of finding your balance too!
