Balance: Finding Your Rhythm

Every January, I carve out a quiet moment to reflect on the year ahead and choose one word—a single, powerful word that will guide my decisions, focus my energy, and anchor me when life gets chaotic.

For the last few years, that word has been balance.

At first glance, balance might seem like an impossible ideal—something we chase but never fully catch. And truthfully, it isn’t about perfection or getting everything “just right.” For me, balance is about presence. It’s about being exactly where I need to be, fully and unapologetically, in the moments that matter most.

I once spoke with a woman who put it perfectly. She said, “When I’m at work, I feel guilty for not being with my kids. And when I’m with my kids, I feel guilty for not working harder.” That tension—the push and pull of our responsibilities—can leave us feeling stretched so thin that we lose sight of ourselves.

But here’s the thing: balance isn’t about doing it all. It’s about letting go of the guilt and embracing the beauty of being present. Whether I’m pouring my heart into a keynote, having a kitchen dance party with my kids, or sneaking away for a rare moment of quiet, I strive to fully live in that space without looking over my shoulder.

Of course, finding balance isn’t easy. It’s a moving target, and some days, it feels like life tilts completely off-kilter. But over time, I’ve discovered a few tools and strategies that help me realign and keep that delicate rhythm.

1. Define Your Priorities

Here’s a little secret: you can’t do everything—and you don’t have to. Take a hard look at your life and get crystal clear on what matters most. Then, protect those priorities fiercely. Whether it’s carving out family time, dedicating focus hours at work, or simply scheduling some much-needed downtime, knowing your “non-negotiables” is the first step to finding balance.

2. Time-Block Like a Pro

When I look at my calendar, I want it to reflect my values. I block out intentional time for work, family, self-care, and even fun. Seeing those priorities on the calendar keeps me accountable and gives me permission to fully immerse myself in whatever I’m doing at that moment.

3. Let Go of Perfect

If you’re waiting for balance to look like a perfectly weighted scale, you’re setting yourself up for disappointment. Life is messy. Some days, work will demand more of you. Other days, family will take center stage. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s progress.

4. Check In with Yourself

Life changes, and so do we. I’ve learned to regularly pause and ask myself, What’s working? What isn’t? What do I need more—or less—of right now? These little check-ins help me adjust my expectations and keep things in perspective.

5. Celebrate the Little Wins

Balance isn’t always about grand gestures or life-changing moments. Sometimes, it’s as simple as being fully present at a family dinner or sneaking in a few extra minutes of morning coffee before the world wakes up. Don’t overlook these small victories—they’re the building blocks of a balanced life.

At its core, balance isn’t a destination. It’s a mindset, a rhythm, and a dance that we learn as we go. Some days, I nail it. Other days, I stumble. But I always try to show up with intention, give myself grace, and keep moving forward.

So, what’s your word for the year? How do you stay present and balanced in the chaos of life? Let’s share our stories, celebrate our wins, and keep cheering each other on.

Here’s to finding balance—not just in the big moments but in the beautifully imperfect ones, too.