Q: [Parents] My biggest resolution is finding that magic work/life balance. Right now I am running so thin I feel like I am failing at everything!
A: Since the demands of work and life are constantly changing, finding balance is best held as a journey rather than a destination. One way to approach this is getting super clear on your ideal lifestyle. Take time to define what balance looks like for you. Where are you today with balance, and what would you like it to be instead?
While you are doing this, bring awareness around your mindset. If you catch yourself feeling that it is impossible for you to find balance in work and life, it will become just that – impossible! Instead choose to approach this in a way that embraces possibility! Approaching it from this place will allow you to be your most creative, amazing, problem-solving self!
Now that you are clear on what you would like to move towards, let’s do some visual brainstorming! Take a piece of paper and divide it into two columns – “work” and “life”. Halfway down the page draw a horizontal line. Above the line are activities that move you toward balance, and below the line are activities that move you away from balance. Write down and categorize how you currently spend your time, and what you would like to have time for in the future.
Circle a handful of things that you are saying “yes” to for 2018. You described yourself as feeling spread too thin, and I have a feeling that this is a result of you saying “yes” to too many things! Finding balance is about making clear distinctions with your “yes” and “no” choices – both personally and professionally. This is the challenging part. In order say “yes” to what you circled, what do you need to say “no” to in 2018? Cross off what you are willing to do away with.
Ashley Bradley is a Co-Active Coach and owner of Purpose & Prosper. As a female entrepreneur and mother, she specializes in coaching women who want to show up more powerfully and mindfully in the world by helping them find clarity, balance and purpose in their professional and personal lives. www.purposeandprosper.us
Leave a Reply