I consider myself a go getter. However, a lot of the times, I do too much and lose track of what is really important. Today we’re diving into a topic that’s close to my heart and crucial for all of us navigating the leadership waters: work-life balance. But let’s call it what it really is – work-life harmony. This is a really tough sweet spot to find. But once you do, clarity enters the building and you finally get your life back. Let’s dive into exactly what I mean by this.
The Myth of Perfect Balance:
First off, let’s debunk a myth: perfect balance is a myth. Life isn’t about perfectly balancing every moment; it’s about creating harmony between the different parts of our lives. The phrase “perfect balance is a myth” challenges the often idealized and unrealistic notion that we can equally and perfectly distribute our time and energy across all areas of our lives at all times. This traditional view of work-life balance suggests a neat, even split between our professional and personal lives, but in reality, life is far more dynamic and fluid. So we need to realize that and look for more harmony, clarity, and fulfillment over balance.
Amy Porterfield’s – Simplify to Amplify:
If you know me, you know one of my favorite mentors is Amy Porterfield, a successful entrepreneur and online marketing specialist. Her philosophy has always been about simplifying to amplify. It’s about focusing on what truly matters. In a world where we’re often told to do more, I’m a firm believer in doing less but better. This means setting boundaries and being okay with saying “no” to things that don’t align with your goals or values.
Amy Porterfield’s guiding principle is elegantly straightforward yet profoundly impactful: ‘Simplify to Amplify.’ This philosophy is a beacon in the chaos of our overstimulated world. It’s not about juggling more balls; it’s about juggling the right ones. Amy champions the art of honing in on what is truly essential, cutting through the noise of the non-essential.
In an era that glorifies busyness and multi-tasking, her approach is refreshingly contrarian. Amy advocates for a laser-focused engagement with what truly matters – be it in work, relationships, or personal growth. ‘Doing less but better’ isn’t just a mantra; it’s a disciplined practice of discernment. It means meticulously choosing where to invest your energy and being unapologetically firm in setting boundaries.
This philosophy extends to the power of saying ‘no.’ In Amy’s view, every ‘no’ to distractions is a resounding ‘yes’ to your priorities. It’s about valuing your time and commitments, ensuring that every task, every project, and every interaction aligns seamlessly with your goals and core values. Here lies the secret to not just productivity, but meaningful productivity – achieving more by intentionally doing less.
Michael Hyatt’s Wisdom: Intentional Planning:
Now, let’s bring in some wisdom from Michael Hyatt. Michael is a champion of intentional planning. His Full Focus Planner isn’t just about organizing your day; it’s about aligning your daily actions with your bigger vision. He advises scheduling not just work tasks but also personal time. Whether it’s a date night or a yoga session, put it in your planner!
Michael Hyatt’s approach to intentional planning isn’t just a method; it’s a transformational philosophy that turns vague dreams into tangible realities. This approach is about deliberately designing each day with purpose and precision, ensuring that every action aligns with your ultimate goals.
The Blueprint of Deliberate Action:
- Visionary Goal Setting: Start with clarity on your long-term vision. What are the grand achievements you aspire to? Intentional planning begins with these end goals in mind, breaking them down into smaller, actionable steps.
- Daily Prioritization: Each day, identify your ‘Daily Big 3’ – the three most critical tasks that will move you closer to your goals. This is about quality over quantity, focusing on tasks that have the greatest impact.
- Strategic Time Allocation: Allocate specific time blocks for these key tasks in your planner. This isn’t just about scheduling work; it’s about strategically placing each task at a time when your energy and focus are at their peak.
- Holistic Life Integration: Intentional planning transcends professional goals. It encompasses all facets of life. Schedule time for personal growth, family, health, and leisure, treating these elements with the same importance as work-related tasks.
- Regular Reviews: Weekly and monthly reviews are pivotal in this system. Reflect on your progress, identify what worked and what didn’t, and adjust your plan accordingly. This ensures that your actions are always in sync with your goals.
- Embracing Flexibility: Life is unpredictable. Hyatt’s approach incorporates the flexibility to adjust plans as new situations arise, ensuring that even when the unexpected happens, you remain on track towards your goals.
Transformative Outcomes:
By adopting this intentional planning, you’re not just organizing your day; you’re architecting your life. This method transforms the chaos of aspirations into the clarity of achievements. It’s about making every day a deliberate step towards the future you desire.
Work-Life Harmony in Action:
- Prioritization is Key: Not everything that screams for your attention is important. Identify your top priorities in both work and personal life and give them the attention they deserve. I choose three each day that make the biggest impact and I make sure I get those done.
- Setting Boundaries: This can’t be stressed enough. Set specific work hours, create a dedicated workspace, and when it’s time to switch off, really switch off. Your mind needs rest as much as your body does.
- Self-Care is Non-Negotiable: Whether it’s a morning routine, a fitness regime, or simply quiet time with a book, self-care is essential for replenishing your energy. Eat to fuel your body – think protein, veggies, and fruit, lift weights to grow strength, and walk. Doing these three things will change your power.
- Embrace Flexibility: Sometimes, despite our best plans, life happens. Flexibility is about adjusting your sails when the wind changes direction, not about being rigid.
- Delegation & Saying No: You can do anything, but not everything. Delegate tasks that others can handle, and don’t be afraid to say no to requests that don’t serve your higher goals or are not connected to your core values.
Conclusion:
Remember, creating work-life harmony is a personal journey. What works for me might need tweaking to fit into your life perfectly. The key is to stay true to yourself, your goals, and your values. Keep experimenting, adjusting, and most importantly, keep believing in the beauty of your dreams.
Here’s to creating a fulfilling life!
Are you a working mom seeking to conquer the elusive balance between career, home, and health? Join our 3-Day Balancing Act Challenge starting November 29, where we’ll debunk myths, simplify your journey, and amplify your skills. Embrace the opportunity to transform your life and be part of a supportive community of incredible mamas. Click this link to join now!
Hyatt, M. (2018). Your Best Year Ever: A 5-Step Plan for Achieving Your Most Important Goals. Baker Books.
Hyatt, M. (2019). Free to Focus: A Total Productivity System to Achieve More by Doing Less. Baker Books.
Porterfield, A. (n.d.). Online Marketing Made Easy [Audio podcast].
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