5 Secrets to Finding Harmony in Work and Life

Do you ever feel like there is never enough time in the day? You’re not alone. Finding time for your family, work, and leisure can be challenging. It’s difficult to do it all when there is only 24 hours in a day. So, I thought I would let you in on a little secret…

It’s not about finding balance but rather finding harmony. Forget about finding balance. Balance is just an illusion. Think about it. It assumes that we spend an equal amount of time in all or most areas of our life. The problem with that is… we tend to live such hectic, busy lives it is incredibly difficult to fit everything in.

So, what can we do about it? For me, it’s about creating harmony [not balance]. Life can’t always be in balance, but it is possible to create a life that is in harmony with your vision of who you are and what you want to accomplish. If that resonates with you, try these simple techniques:

1. Be Creative About How You Manage Your Time. Remember, the issue isn’t that there aren’t enough hours in a day; it’s how we choose to use those hours so take 5 to 10 minutes each morning to review the most important things you can and should be doing and making sure they’re first on your to-do list. Be creative in finding ways that you can accomplish the things you need to get done so you can spend time doing the other things in your life that you enjoy.
2. Be Present. These simple words can make a profound impact in creating harmony in your life. If you are at work, don’t be thinking about the time you didn’t spend with your family the night before. And when your at home, don’t be thinking about all the work you have to do at the office when you should be enjoying your family. Wherever you are, be there, fully and completely. Be present in the moment and enjoy the moment.
3. Practice Saying “N0.” Contrary to popular belief, It’s possible to “have it all.” Life is all about making choices. Practice understanding what things to say “no” to and then let go of them. At the same time, think about the things that are truly important in your life and hold on to them.
4. Don’t Be Afraid to Let Go.  All too often we find ourselves keeping things we really don’t need. These “things” clutter our homes and add an additional layer of stress when family and friends come to visit. Don’t be afraid to let go of things. If you find that you have difficulty letting go of things – read the book Spark Joy: An Illustrated Master Class on the Art of Organizing and Tidying Up by Marie Kondo.
5. Stay Focused on What Makes You Happy. If you want harmony, strive to do things that inspire you, energize you and excite you. Build in free time, family time, and personal time into your daily schedule. You’ll be happier for it – that I am sure of.

The truth is that when you are 75 years old, you are not going to wish you spent more time at the office. You don’t need to be a workaholic to be successful. Focus on creating happiness in your life. Be creative and innovative. Find ideas that work for you and the life you live. Spend time with family and friends and most importantly enjoy the life you want to live!

Quote of the Day:

“Learn from others whom have walked the path before you, but be smart enough to know when to cut your own trail.”

Narciso Rodriguez