Out of Balance

If you've read leadership books or articles or even some of the popular magazines in the past few decades, you have most-likely read about keeping balance in your life. Conferences and corporate training repeat the balance mantra as well. So how are you doing with your balanced life?

Fortunately, some people are finally brave enough to question the balance goal. As Keith Hammonds said in Fast Company, "balance is bunk".

As I listened to the Deadly Viper Character Assassins book a while back, it was good to hear others sharing the opinion I had had for years. The topic is addressed under The Assassin of the Headless Sprinting Chicken chapter at about 1:09 into the free audio book.

The idea of balance often ends up being a picture of spinning plates. We try to keep everything in life going strong all at the same time, all in the same week, even all in the same day. Trying to have balance this way is exhausting....and frustrating.

Instead, look at your entire life's portfolio. There are seasons for emphasizing different things. Be content in that.

Rather than focusing on balance, the focus should be on priorities. If we have some of our priorities clear, then decisions about time and resources become easier.

Can you think of anyone who had a big impact on the world who was also balanced in all areas of their life? It is doubtful. Being perfectly balanced can mean being mediocre and boring. At best, we are good in several different areas. But it is doubtful any balanced person is ever great in anything.

Those who have truly changed the world were passionate and focused. Those who are passionate usually have to let other areas of their lives become less than good or approved as acceptable. They have let some areas of their lives "go" so they could focus on their passion and what they do best. And with that focus and passion, they impacted lives.

Some balance is good. But I hope I always have enough passion to courageously make a difference. Live with passion. And see God do wonderful things through you.