Is work-life balance a myth?

“Work-life balance was a mistake from the start. Because we don't really want balance. We want satisfaction.” - Matthew Kelly, author

Balance is a sticky subject among many people. We have careers, partners, children, family and social commitments, charity work, classes, hobbies, plus big desires to improve our health and wellbeing. How can we possibly balance so many things?

I’m going to let you in on a little secret here: We can’t.

Work-life balance is actually a myth in my opinion. “Harmony” is an easier goal than balance.

Harmony means everything is co-existing in a spirit of cooperation. But whatever you want to call it —harmony, balance, or “fitting it all in”— there is a secret to doing more of what you want and less of what you don’t want.

Although the equation sounds simple, it actually takes an intentional mindset and action. You need to get absolutely clear on what you want your life to look like, and what you do not want in your life.

Ready? Here is how you can start today:

1. First, ask yourself what isn’t serving you. What doesn’t need to be in your life? What is dragging you down? Keeping you awake at night?

Have you identified a few things? Now consider to what extent you can get rid of them.

2. Next, ask yourself what you want in your life or in this week or day. What do you want to accomplish? What do you want to do? Who do you want to be with? Focus your energy on these things. Anything that doesn’t fit into this larger scheme let it go or learn how to say “no”.

3. Ready to dive in and make a few changes? Give these tips a try and see how much more harmonious your life can be - no balance required. For more insights on work-life balance watch Nigel Marsh - Work Life Balance is an Ongoing Battle.

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