Defining “Balance” – Not Just Semantics

Raise your hand if you dislike the word “balance”.  For many working moms, balance is a dirty word that stirs an array of negative emotions. Why? Because they feel like life balance is an unrealistic and unachievable ideal. However, I’d like to suggest that the reason for this may be because your working (or not working) definition of what balance ought to look like in your life is in need of some tweaking. Learning to live a balanced life starts with a healthy definition by which you can gauge your success.

Consider this – some people might say it’s just semantics, but I propose that the very word you use around this concept can either help or hinder you in your quest for this much sought after state. As mentioned before, if the word balance is a buzz word in your brain, consider replacing it with the word “whole”, “healthy,” or “happy”. Does one of these words resonate better with you?  If living a balanced life is unachievable, is it possible to live a healthy life? You determine what that looks like in your current situation and then do your best to implement a plan to help you to that end. Note however that this plan will differ for each one of us. For instance, a mompreneur of 4 little ones may only be able to spend a power hour of time investing in herself daily and 15-20 minute chunks here and there working on her business. But a mother of 1 will have more flexibility and time to set concrete hours for specific activities. Each needs to decide what she needs personally and professionally to thrive. The point is, if you feel that living a (you pick) healthy, happy, or whole life is more possible than living a balanced life – you will be much more likely to achieve it because you believe it’s possible. Changing your terminology will enable you to find a working definition of balance, ridding you of self defeating beliefs and greatly impacting your thought processes around this principle. Those positive thoughts will translate into more action and regardless of what word you are using, the end result will be the same, more joy and success.

Truth is, balance isn’t a static state. It will change in every phase of our lives. But as you seek for greater balance (or health, joy, wholeness, etc.) remember to start with a healthy definition, make a plan, and move forward.

Tara has been in the business of teaching, training, and coaching for over 5 years and is a Mission Ignition Certified Coach.

She has an extensive background in leadership, public speaking, and instructing children, teenagers, and adults in a variety of subjects and settings. Before graduating from Utah State University with a B.S. degree in Family, Consumer, Human Development – Tara spent time abroad teaching English in Xi’an, China and in England as a religious volunteer. Post graduation, she was employed with the Utah Youth Village where she taught at-risk families life skills as a Families First Specialist.

Besides her keen interest in helping people succeed, Tara enjoys traveling, singing, public speaking, reading, and most recently writing. She hopes to publish a work of fiction in the coming year.

Tara has been married to her best friend, Luke, for almost 4 years and together they have one son.