Oh hey,
How are we? I had an absolute cracker of a day yesterday! This little beach-bum was on the 6.56am train up to the city to run a workshop with a group of leaders.
Now, my brief was how can leaders find a bit more balance in their life. Which, to be frank, I laughed at, at first. You see, balance isn’t a word I really think of when I think about highly ambitious, driven people who are, or want to be, at the very top of their careers. They love their work. They’re great at it, and it lights them up! So, honestly, why on earth would they step away from something they’re so passionate about?
But here’s the kicker: that same passion? It can totally burn you out. And while you’re deep in the hustle, guess what? Life is zooming by on the other side. Yep, that thing called life - you know, the one with sunsets, friends, sleep (remember sleep?). Plus, let’s not forget how hard it can be feeling like you’re constantly being pulled in every direction like some superhuman rubber band.
So, what’s a high-achiever to do? How can you possibly find more balance?
Step 1: Wake Up and smell the coffee
First, we need to admit that maybe, just maybe, a bit more balance is needed. Awareness is half the battle. If you’re checking emails at dinner or constantly thinking about work when you’re supposed to be “off”, there’s a red flag waving, and it’s got your name on it.
Step 2: Get real about what you love
Now we’re aware that a bit of change might be needed, let’s talk about what really matters to you. What do you really love doing? When was the last time you did something that had zero to do with work and made you feel alive? Seriously, think about it. Is it painting, hiking, cooking, or just chilling in a hammock with a good book? Your work doesn’t have to be your whole life. You’re allowed to love other things too and make time for those things without feeling guilty about it. In fact, you should.
Step 3: Build the life you actually want
This is where the magic happens: creating a life you love. Start thinking about how you can do more of the stuff that makes you happy - not just the stuff that makes you “productive”. It’s all about balance, baby. If work takes up all the space, what are you missing out on? A lot, actually. And it’s time to reclaim that.
Oh, and here’s a pro tip: Get comfy with doing less work
Yeah, I said less. Your brain will try to guilt trip you, but guess what? You’re not here to live a life of spreadsheets and status meetings. Managing your guilt will be your biggest priority. Remind yourself that rest, joy, and fun are just as important as hitting those KPIs.
So, in conclusion… Work will always be there. But life? It’s happening right now. Don’t miss it because you were too busy responding to emails on a Sunday.
It’s time to un-addict ourselves from the grind, get clear on what makes our hearts sing, and start building a life that’s got room for more than just work. Trust me, there’s a whole lot more fun to be had when you step off the hamster wheel.
Have a beautiful, rich and nourishing week my friends.
Cate x
Oh hey,
How are we? I had an absolute cracker of a day yesterday! This little beach-bum was on the 6.56am train up to the city to run a workshop with a group of leaders.
Now, my brief was how can leaders find a bit more balance in their life. Which, to be frank, I laughed at, at first. You see, balance isn’t a word I really think of when I think about highly ambitious, driven people who are, or want to be, at the very top of their careers. They love their work. They’re great at it, and it lights them up! So, honestly, why on earth would they step away from something they’re so passionate about?
But here’s the kicker: that same passion? It can totally burn you out. And while you’re deep in the hustle, guess what? Life is zooming by on the other side. Yep, that thing called life - you know, the one with sunsets, friends, sleep (remember sleep?). Plus, let’s not forget how hard it can be feeling like you’re constantly being pulled in every direction like some superhuman rubber band.
So, what’s a high-achiever to do? How can you possibly find more balance?
Step 1: Wake Up and smell the coffee
First, we need to admit that maybe, just maybe, a bit more balance is needed. Awareness is half the battle. If you’re checking emails at dinner or constantly thinking about work when you’re supposed to be “off”, there’s a red flag waving, and it’s got your name on it.
Step 2: Get real about what you love
Now we’re aware that a bit of change might be needed, let’s talk about what really matters to you. What do you really love doing? When was the last time you did something that had zero to do with work and made you feel alive? Seriously, think about it. Is it painting, hiking, cooking, or just chilling in a hammock with a good book? Your work doesn’t have to be your whole life. You’re allowed to love other things too and make time for those things without feeling guilty about it. In fact, you should.
Step 3: Build the life you actually want
This is where the magic happens: creating a life you love. Start thinking about how you can do more of the stuff that makes you happy - not just the stuff that makes you “productive”. It’s all about balance, baby. If work takes up all the space, what are you missing out on? A lot, actually. And it’s time to reclaim that.
Oh, and here’s a pro tip: Get comfy with doing less work
Yeah, I said less. Your brain will try to guilt trip you, but guess what? You’re not here to live a life of spreadsheets and status meetings. Managing your guilt will be your biggest priority. Remind yourself that rest, joy, and fun are just as important as hitting those KPIs.
So, in conclusion… Work will always be there. But life? It’s happening right now. Don’t miss it because you were too busy responding to emails on a Sunday.
It’s time to un-addict ourselves from the grind, get clear on what makes our hearts sing, and start building a life that’s got room for more than just work. Trust me, there’s a whole lot more fun to be had when you step off the hamster wheel.
Have a beautiful, rich and nourishing week my friends.
Cate x
