Is there such a thing as work-life balance?
I just read Jerry Colonna’s* article “Why Work-Life Balance is Bullshit”, and want to share it with you. It’s a great read, starting with the title: honest, catchy, and a relief! I aspire to live a balanced and equanimous life but when I compare aspiration with reality, the balance is hard to find. Work has always been an integral part of my life and I enjoy my work. But sometimes I look at my life and wonder: Have I been too focused on my career? Other times I ask myself if my vacations are too long? What does a balanced day look like?
Here are my two take-aways from this article:
- Jerry says his meditation teacher said “One-third, one-third, and one-third.” He interprets this as “One-third taking care of business. One-third taking care of the subtle and gross bodies — the inner you and the physical you. And one third for family, friends, community, the world at large.”
- “The real gift is learning to be present in whatever third you’re living. So when you’re working, work. And when you’re loving, love. And when you’re eating, eat. As the wise, old Ram Dass said: Be here now.”
It is a sobering reminder- to be present. I love how Jerry uses the word “learning” to be present. It takes practice and patience with ourselves to be present. And when we are present with what we are doing, it’s a gift to ourselves and to those around us.
What third are you in at this moment?