A Question of Balance
By Matt Church
At times, everyone's life will be out of balance. In order to realise
our goals some sacrifice will be necessary. To me, balance is best
explained as a centre point to which we keep returning from bouts of
relaxation or pressure. It's a base point from which we deliberately
choose to step away or step back into.
When we play squash we react to the ball best when we're at centre
court. Sometimes we throw ourselves at the wall, sometimes we chase the
ball to the front wall, but at all times we're aware of how exposed we are
and our need to get back to centre court - our balance point.
Perfect balance is a state of non-movement. Life's too fluid and
dynamic for this state to be maintained for long periods. If we want to
get ahead in life, then in almost anything, it requires work, effort and a
personal stretch.
The answer lies in knowing how to relax, and how to push it when
required. We also need to recognise the state we're in at any given
moment, and then make a conscious decision to maintain or alter that
state. Is it time to relax or, go for it?
If you choose to push it then, support your decision by:
- Not missing an exercise workout. A workout will burn off excess
stress drugs such as cortisol and leave you calm and rational.
- Always eat breakfast. This sends a message to your body that all is
OK and prevents excess adrenaline being used simply to get going at
the start of day.
- Discuss with your family the period of time you'll be out of balance
and the reason you've made this choice.
If you choose to relax then, support this decision by:
- Leaving your briefcase at work - don't take it home the night you
intend to relax.
- Take your watch off ...you'll soon get out of time. (less focussed
on the urgent and more on the important)
- Eat lunch away from work stimulants such as the in tray and computer
screen.
Know the cost of deciding to go for it, or to back off. And, take
responsibility for that decision. Balance is a destination never arrived
at. It's knowing that it's your choice to maintain or reject your current
state that's important.
About the author: Matt Church is a speaker and
trainer who travels over 100 days a year delivering seminars to
corporations helping their employees lay the foundations for success. If
you would like to help your employees get their priorities right or would
like to find out more about a seminar run by Matt Church then visit his
website at www.mattchurch.com.au
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