Finding Balance Is Key To Resiliency

Fresh out of college, my first job in the high-powered, fast-paced world of New York fashion was an around-the-clock odyssey of glamour, glitterati and menial jobs. I loved it. Working long hours, traveling and weekend commitments were all part of this exciting opportunity that catapulted me to more career adventures in fashion and luxury brands promotion. My next career path led to law school and a 24-7 commitment to corporate law at a prestigious New York law firm. Throughout my early career years I am pretty sure I did not consider the idea of balancing anything, and certainly thoughts about resiliency never crossed my mind.

When new directions exposed me to a life I never imagined, I was compelled to address  the gaping void of services, support systems and societal viewpoints affecting the lives of adults diagnosed with Autism. As a social entrepreneur starting a non-profit organization, I worked late until the wee hours of the morning driven by my passion to create a more equitable world for people with Autism. Intuitively but not always intentionally, I began to realize the necessity of balance.  As a mother and spouse along with many other responsibilities of an active lifestyle, I tried my best to create balance by prioritizing my goals, but it was complicated and difficult.

Now, twenty years later, reflecting on wisdom acquired through experiences, the importance of finding balance suitable to individuality seems to be a key to not only career success but even more importantly to overall well-being and happiness. So, what are some “tips” I have used to  help facilitate a balanced life?

Prioritization is paramount in organizing responsibilities and goals. Making a mental or written list of your objectives is a great starting point. Often forgotten in organizing a list of priorities is the inclusion of items that benefit your own well-being like exercise, alone time, and eating healthfully. I have a beautiful piece of artwork in my office that reminds me everyday of this message: “first nourish your soul, then nourish the world.” 

Acceptance is equally important in the pursuit of balance, because as we all know, many unexpected occurrences happen provoking realignments. As your life changes because of age or circumstances, how you balance your life will change too, however the same practice of focusing on your intentions remains relevant.  Finding balance, and fine-tuning your balance periodically is a practice that enhances resiliency by creating the needed stability to presently live the moments of your lifetime.

Linda Joy Walder