Work and Life: Balance or Harmony?

I recently attended a work conference with my husband and the company sponsored a women’s-only brunch. The venue was lovely with flowers and pretty table linens. The food and drink were delicious and visually beautiful. The chandeliers sparkled on the jewel tones of the water goblets. But the keynote speaker was the highlight for me. She was a joy to listen to, down to earth, funny, and spoke specifically to issues that women face in business and in life. She had several actionable tips, but one really stood out to me.

Photo by S.W.

Quit chasing a work-life balance. There are seasons that it absolutely won’t happen, especially if you have children. The pursuit of balance during these seasons can lead to extreme frustration and guilt, further pushing that balance askew. She showed a typical life pie chart. It included physical health, personal growth, family, social life, finance, career, relationships, and spirituality. Looking at my life, these things are never in balance no matter how much effort I put into each. She suggested to strive for harmony within your season of life instead. How can you give your best (not perfection, but your best) to each of these categories and still live in harmony? Not balance, but harmony. She had a few wise suggestions.

Photo of me at the Women of Nexa Event.

1. Stop criticizing yourself for not being perfect. Your good is enough.

2. Give up guilt. It serves no purpose and wastes time.

3. Ask for help. It’s a sign of strength. It’s unrealistic (read impossible) to try to do it all!

4. Be a mentor. Your wisdom will benefit others. Share it.

5. Support other women. Confident women support each other!!

6. Be the best version of your authentic self. Being like everyone else is boring.

Coming together with 300 business women and spending a few hours supporting and encouraging one another was a huge blessing of this trip. What will you embrace or give up to obtain harmony in your life? Sometimes, it’s just a shift in expectations! Feel free to email me at stacy@wordsbystacy.com or comment on my socials.