Life balance remains at the top of the charts for Harvard graduates, high school dropouts, and muses everywhere; but what about that mesmerizing romance, compelling career, or captivating hobby? As someone who is hopelessly hypnotized by his honey, passionately committed to his healing work, and magnetically stuck on his writing and music; I have carefully contemplated this confusing conundrum, and here is what I concluded …
Shifting priorities determine when we can give in to an obsession or when, with trembling hands, we must hold on to its titillating temptation until the next time. Whether considering a traditional model like Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs or a more alternative view like the chakra system, we are regularly reminded that our basic needs come first. When they are met, then it is up to us to decide if we can splurge on a delicious date with our darling, get temporarily lost in our work, or disappear into an article or song.
If prioritizing becomes your decision tree, as it is mine; then you must routinely decide which branch, right now, represents the cut-off. In other words, when our basic needs have been met, and we have numerous other priorities to balance; then we can decide in the moment whether or not the most important things have been addressed sufficiently enough to justify disappearing into our passion, purpose, or pensive pool.
For example, on Tuesday I began writing an article entitled Anxiety and the Brain: 25 Routes to Safety. As it began forming, between sips of freshly ground rainforest roast, I braced myself for what promised to be a book. The longer I wrote, the more excited I grew; and the more convinced I was that I would forego my music practice today in order to crank out the article. I briefly questioned my decision, considered all sides of the equation, and concluded that this article was part of my healing work and creative passion (both work and hobby). I was spending quality time with my wife, my health was great, I rarely allowed writing to supersede; so I went for it. I wrote during every spare moment on Tuesday (and some that were not available), played hooky from my practice, and on Wednesday ditched my weight training to get it done. I had Thursday as a weight training back-up, so all was well. After pouring nearly 20 hours over a two day period into the piece, it was finished and I was excited! I believe it will help many reduce their anxiety and live a healthier, happier life. It was definitely worth it!
Now, aside from sharing in my life balancing process, you can help me circulate my article — would you please? Please share, reblog, or post it where you think others would read and benefit from it. Mahalo (thank you), malama `ia oe ho`opena pule maika`a (take excellent care, and have an awesome weekend)! 🙂
Photo Credit: Wikipedia
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