There is so much one hears and reads on the subject of work life balance. As someone very aptly wrote – there is no work-life balance, there is only Life Balance! While it is important to have a healthy work-life balance, we must realize that there are several aspects to life and it is only when all these categories are balanced that we have a fulfilling life. The analogy I would like to use is that of a vehicle, let us say a bus. All the wheels have to function equally efficiently and in tandem for the vehicle to move smoothly. One wheel out of balance or sync will affect the movement of the bus. Similarly, all important aspects of our lives need to be in tandem for a balanced life.

A quick exercise for you to assess how balanced your life is. Given below are eight key categories. Rate yourself on a scale of 1 to 10 in each of these categories based on how satisfied or dissatisfied you are with your current circumstances. Rating scale – 1 being extremely dissatisfied and 10 being extremely satisfied.

1. Family. One of the integral support systems that we have. Family could be spouse, partner and children. Could also include parents, extended family and even very close friends. Discord in family life has a direct impact on an individual’s happiness and also on efficacy at work. Harmony on the other hand is a great source of strength and solace especially during difficult times. How would you rate your family life presently?
2. Health. One important ground rule to bear in mind is that our health is our individual responsibility. No one other than us is responsible for our health. Being fit and in good health is very critical for us to enjoy life’s experiences and also to be of help to others.  How would you rate your health and fitness as of today?
3. Environment. The environment where we live and work greatly impacts the way we feel. Working or living in a comfortable and healthy environment is directly related to our productivity at work and personal life as well as our happiness levels. How satisfied or dissatisfied are you with the environments you live and work in presently?
4. Career. Being engaged in activity which makes us happy is critical for our well being. Are you stuck in a job solely for the money or do you enjoy what you do? Since we spend most of our waking hours at work, try to be engaged in something which gives you happiness too, not just money. How satisfied are you with your career presently?
5. Entertainment. All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy. Fun is an integral part of our experiences. What is your idea of fun? Is it travelling or trekking with friends? Or it could be watching movies or theatre or simply hanging out with friends. How much time do you spend each week on fun activities? Rate how satisfied or dissatisfied you are with the “fun” element in your life.
6. Learning and growing. One of the biggest misconceptions we have is that learning is necessary only till we are in college. Or at the most extended to the skills we need at work. Wrong. Self development is an integral part of who and what we are. We are here to learn and grow till the last day of our lives. What is it that you have always wanted to learn but didn’t or couldn’t? Arts, music, sports? Or is it drama, theatre or martial arts? Most times the only thing preventing us from learning or doing what we want is ourselves. Are you intrinsically learning and growing? Rate yourself on where you think you are.
7. Social Life. Along with family, the biggest social support system that we have going through life and its challenges are our friends. How strong is your social circle? How many close friends do you have and how often do you spend time with your friends? Remember it is not necessarily the number of friends you have but the quality and closeness which matters. How happy or dissatisfied are you with your social life?
8. Spiritual life. Some may find this category debatable. What is your meaning in life? What do you feel is your life purpose? What drives your sense of right and wrong? Spirituality does not necessarily mean being religious. You can define it any way you want. Rate yourself on your level of satisfaction with your spiritual life.

Take stock of where you are in each of these categories. In how many categories did you score 7 and above? Well done, you are on track! Which are those categories where you scored a 6 or less? What can you do to improve in those areas? Feel free to add any more categories you feel are important or critical.

Hope you found this exercise useful. For those interested in going deeper into life goals, we have the Life Goals Navigation Workshop conducted every month in Bangalore. This is a one day intensive workshop where you will be navigated through the different categories to help take stock of where you are presently and clearly define your goals backed up with a comprehensive plan. Check out the Workshops section of the website or drop an email at connect@purplenirvana.in for more information.

Will be back soon with more insights and info. Till then..

Much love and light