The Illusion of Work/Life Balance!

​It always makes for an interesting discussion to start with a provocative title.  At this point, the blood pressure of some of our lifestyle enthusiasts will be starting to rise.  But hold on there for a minute…… relax, read on, and we may just find some common ground.  

There would be few people who would disagree with the notion of finding a reasonable balance between the responsibilities and demands of our work, or running a business, and on the other hand having sufficient time to engage with family, friends and recreational activities that both rest and rejuvenate the body and mind.  

But is that an achievable goal or is it just a pipe dream?

In talking to many business clients over time, I've heard the statement that work-life balance “is an illusion that just can't be achieved”.  But, upon reflection, I'm not totally sure that it’s the ultimate goal.  Life itself is an ever moving dynamic where everything around us including ourselves change, evolve and develop.  We are constantly exposed to different experiences and events that help shape who we are and the course of our lives.  

I suspect that in reality, those people who believe they have achieved a good work-life balance, don't just reach that goal and sit back in a rocking chair with their arms folded behind their heads, and a look of satisfaction on their face.  I’m confident they will be consciously or subconsciously adjusting and altering the events and circumstances around themselves on a constant basis to remain in that desired zone.  Just like the ballast in a cruise ship continually working to keep the ship upright, and sailing smoothly on rough waters, it's the goal of each individual to find the right balance for themselves and continually adjust to the circumstances that are presented to them.  
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Instead of being a fixed point to aim for, it may well be a broad zone to operate in.  So perhaps those business owners that believe work-life balance is an illusion, are being too hard on themselves.  Be sure of this one point, that work-life balance is something that we must continually strive for.  We may not achieve the perfect balance, but we must continue to adjust and adapt our personal and professional lives so that we can stay broadly within the right zone.  Both you, your family and business depend on it.  So maybe, just maybe, that illusion you talk about is actually right there in front of you, but you just haven't seen it yet! 

Anthony Ferro
 
Present Professionally serves customers across the Toowoomba Region and South East Queensland.  You can follow Anthony at https://au.linkedin.com/in/anthonyferro1  or view details at www.presentprofessionally.com.au and LIKE us on Facebook @ https://www.facebook.com/PresentProfessionallyAustralia/
 
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