This Work, Life, Balance Lessons episode has been inspired by a range of conversations I had with strangers during my summer holiday in Canada. These people – men and women, ranging in ages and professions – had one thing in common: they had all left big cities to locate themselves in remote places of natural beauty in order to indulge in pursuits that they are passionate about.
This podcast recording took place in September, and with the days now drawing dark earlier, and an autumnal chill in the air, the summer holidays already feel like a distant memory. But I’m holding on to some of the benefits that I felt from taking a break from my usual work and home routine to go on a family holiday, and to think about work-life balance from a different perspective.
In this episode, I reflect on the lessons I learned about:
- What motivates some people to leave the hustle and bustle of the big city and relocate to somewhere quieter and picturesque.
- How making this work-life balance choice can impact on a person’s sense of balance overall.
- Whether this is the best way of finding balance if you feel overwhelmed by the pace and competition of corporate, city living.
The episode includes four quick stories of people that I encoutered who had made (and raved about!) this work-life balance choice. I then reflect on the Work, Life, Balance Lessons they taught me, considering these lessons through the prism of three key pillars I’ve concluded are essential to achieving a personal balance:
individuality, fluidity, and intentionality
Having these conversations made me personally reflect on whether this is a lifestyle that would bring me – someone that lives , works, and raises a family in the city – more of a sense of balance. It may well prompt listeners to reflect on this for themselves too.
One of the most profound lessons I personally learned from making this episode is acceptance. Certainly there have been times in my life when escaping the ‘rat race’ has been appealing, and I have taken decisions to relocate myself or adjust my situation accordingly. I’m not ruling it out again for the future (hence the fluidity pillar), but individually, it’s not a choice that appeals to me at this moment.
Nevertheless, I drew a lot of energy, pleasure and inspiration from meeting people who have found a balance that works for them. There is always something to take away when you’re lucky enough to come across that.
In this case, I was reminded of the importance of recognising the value of things in life that bring you joy, and the benefits of making time for them – making them a priority. That doesn’t always feel manageable when you’re busy chasing city dreams and deadlines. But, these people taught me that it is possible. And it is worth it.
Listeners may hear the stories I share on this episode and come to different conclusions. Feel free to share what that is in the comments below, or by email at info@a-fine-balance.com.