As a business owner, partner, activist, humanist, and mother of four, I spent years chasing the ever-elusive idea of balance. I thought if I could just crack the code—get the perfect routine, set the right boundaries, and optimize every second—I could finally juggle everything seamlessly. Spoiler alert: That version of balance is a myth.

We’ve all heard the phrase “work-life balance” tossed around like it’s the ultimate goal. It’s often painted as a perfect equilibrium where we effortlessly manage careers, relationships, health, hobbies, and personal growth—all at the same time. But let’s be honest: Trying to do everything, all at once, and do it well? That’s a one-way ticket to burnout.

The truth is, real balance isn’t about doing everything simultaneously. It’s about understanding that life happens in seasons, and each season requires different priorities. It’s about knowing when to lean in and when to step back. And perhaps most importantly, it’s about prioritizing joy, self-awareness, self-compassion, time for play, gratitude, and creativity. Let’s break this down.

The Myth of Doing It All at Once

We live in a culture that glorifies the idea of “having it all.” We’re told we can be the perfect professional, partner, parent, friend, and human—while also keeping a spotless home, hitting the gym daily, and pursuing our passions. Sound exhausting? That’s because it is. It creates unnecessary pressure and guilt when we inevitably fall short.

This narrative sets us up for failure. It creates unnecessary pressure and guilt when we inevitably fall short. The reality? Life is dynamic. Our energy and focus are finite. Trying to do everything at once often leads to stress, overwhelm, and a nagging sense that we’re never doing enough.

Instead of chasing an impossible standard, it’s time to redefine what balance truly means.

Real Balance: Seasons, Priorities, and Flexibility

Balance—or maybe we should call it harmony—is about recognizing that life moves in seasons. Some seasons are about career growth, where work takes center stage. Other seasons demand more focus on health, family, or rest. The key is allowing priorities to shift without guilt and trusting that nothing is permanent.

And here’s the kicker: You don’t have to wait for a major life shift to reassess your focus. Sometimes this rebalancing needs to happen daily or weekly, and other times monthly or yearly. The point is, you get to decide what takes priority and when.

For example, you might be in a season where work is demanding. Your social life and hobbies may take a backseat—and that’s okay. But even in busy seasons, small moments of joy matter. Whether it’s a five-minute dance break, a morning walk, or a deep breath of gratitude, these things keep you grounded. 

Balance also means knowing when to lean in and when to step back. Leaning in means giving your full attention to what’s most important at the moment. Stepping back means letting go of things that don’t align with your current priorities. It’s not about doing more—it’s about doing what matters.

What Balance Looks Like for Me

For me, balance isn’t a static destination—it’s fluid and ever-changing. Some weeks, work demands more of me, and I honor that. Other times, I step back to focus on my mental health, family, or creativity.

But no matter what season I’m in, I always make time for joy. That might look like:

• Reading a great book
• Playing around on TikTok
• Writing or journaling
• Dancing to my favorite song
• Spending time in nature
• Daydreaming (yes, you heard that correctly. This is a valuable part of my well-being)

These small but mighty moments remind me that life isn’t just about productivity. And when things don’t go as planned? I practice self-compassion. Instead of beating myself up, I ask: What do I need right now? And I listen to myself with curiosity rather than judgment. That simple shift has been a game changer in my life and business.

Gratitude plays a huge role, too. Taking just a moment to reflect on what’s going well helps me appreciate the season I’m in—whatever that may be. Looking for a guided gratitude practice? Check out the Shift Your Focus Gratitude Journal.

How You Can Define Balance for Yourself

The beauty of redefining balance is that it’s personal. What works for me may not work for you—and that’s the point.

Here’s how you can start defining balance for yourself:

• Identify Your Season: Reflect on the current season of your life. What’s most important right now? Is it your career, your family, your health, or something else?
• Set Clear Priorities: What deserves your energy today? What can wait?
• Prioritize Joy & Play: Make space for things that bring you joy. Even five minutes of something you love can shift your entire day.
• Practice Self-Compassion:  Check in with yourself regularly. How are you feeling? What do you need? Be kind to yourself when things don’t go as planned—without guilt.
• Cultivate Gratitude: Reflect on what you’re grateful for daily. It’s a powerful way to stay present and appreciate where you are.
• Be Flexible: Seasons change. What works today may not work tomorrow, and that’s okay.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Balance isn’t about perfection. Celebrate progress, no matter how small.

Keep in mind

Balance isn’t about having it all at once. It’s about having what matters most in each season of your life—and making sure that joy, self-awareness, self-compassion, play, gratitude, and creativity are always part of the equation. By embracing this mindset, you can let go of the pressure to do everything and focus on what truly brings you joy and fulfillment.

So, the next time you feel overwhelmed by the idea of balance, remember: you don’t have to do it all. You just have to do what’s right for you, right now. And that’s more than enough.

What does balance look like for you in this season of your life? How do you prioritize joy, play, and creativity? Share your thoughts in the comments—I’d love to hear your perspective!

Final Thoughts

Balance isn’t about having it all at once—it’s about having what matters most in each season of your life. When you redefine balance on your own terms, you release the pressure to do everything and start focusing on what actually fulfills you.

So, let’s shift the conversation. Instead of asking “How do I do it all?”—ask “What do I want to focus on right now?”

Your version of balance is yours to define.

What does balance look like for you in this season of your life? How do you prioritize joy, play, and creativity? Drop a comment—I’d love to hear your take! In the meantime, check out this video below!

Rethinking Success and Balance

Discover true alignment in life and business—embrace your journey of growth, recalibration, and authenticity with clarity and courage. Check this out, Alignment Doesn’t Mean Perfection