As we begin to open up we are hearing more and more about the importance of “Work Life Balance”.  Honestly I have never understood this phrase.

How can there be any balance if work is always priority one?

We do not have lives that fit nicely into compartments. Our lives have ebbs and flows that change.  Sometimes we plan for these, sometimes it is like riding the wave and trying to navigate the wake of life.  For too long work came at the cost of living.

I prefer the term of Harmonizing Life.

Over the past two years our lives honestly have been disrupted.  I love the model that is shared in the book “Choosing Change – How Leaders and Organizations Drive Results One Person at a Time” written by Susan Goldsworthy and Walter McFarland. Link to a summary on this book.

In order to find harmony after we are Disrupted, a Desire for something different is the next step.   This Desire begins the 2nd step of 5Ds to Development.

Thank you to Jiliane Courteau with Dactylus Virtual for creating this graphic.

In creating harmony we create space to find those ways to invest in relationships and be part of work that bring us to life.  We are not just managing the day to only collect a pay cheque.  We are bringing our full selves to all we do.  This helps us learn more about what we love.

In a recent Disrupt Yourself podcast conversation with Whitney Johnson and Marcus Buckingham, he shares this thought:

It is by creating harmony in all we do, work does not come at the cost of life.  This truly is an investment in ourselves so we can show up as our best selves.

Part of Harmonizing Life is also creating space for downtime to relax and recharge.  Take a look at this piece “Creating Space to Take Downtime”  Leading up to our downtime it is key to connect with our team and share who will be the point person in our absence.  Communicate this with our colleagues, clients and partners several days in advance of our downtime.    As well, establish what a true emergency looks like and how this will be managed in our absence and if and when you need to be brought into the discussion.

While you are away make a commitment to yourself to not think or talk about work.

Making downtime a priority helps us create more space for creativity and innovation.  This helps to model we value investing in our wellbeing.

In what ways can you create greater harmony in your life, where work does not come at the cost of living?

This honestly begins by saying yes more to ourselves and no to the things that truly do not nourish us.

As you navigate away from “Work Life Balance” to Harmonizing Life take small steps.  Choose one thing you will do differently.  Change takes time.  Your body, mind and spirit will thank you.

Be kind.

Be patient.

Be nourished in all you do.

Photography Sharon K. Summerfield