If You're Struggling With Balance, This Idea Will Change Your Life.
Article #118 of Life Unlocked - A newsletter by Dr Yath Prem, MD
Dear Friends,
There was a time when I chased balance relentlessly. The idea that I could give every aspect of my life equal attention at all times felt like the ultimate achievement. Work, fitness, relationships, personal growth; I believed I could juggle them all seamlessly, every single day. But in the last 3 years, I have realised something important: this pursuit of perfect balance is not only unattainable but a source of stress and anxiety that will bring you down.
To counteract this, I have implemented the concept of living life in seasons, and everything has changed. Let’s unpack it together.
Most of us are constantly bombarded with the idea of balance. Social media influencers, self-help books, and even well-meaning friends talk about "work-life balance" as if life can be a perfectly organised pie chart. I’ve perhaps mentioned in my own content in the past. But life isn’t steady. It ebbs and flows.
Some days or even years are chaotic and demanding, while others are slow and steady. Trying to maintain a perfect equilibrium during every moment only leaves us feeling overwhelmed, perpetually falling short of an unrealistic ideal.
It’s like trying to hold an ocean in your hands. You can’t. The tide will shift, whether you’re ready or not.
Imagine instead that your life is a series of seasons, each with its unique focus.
In one season, work might take centre stage. Perhaps you're finalising a big project or securing a major promotion. During these times, your fitness routine might simplify, social outings might reduce, and that’s okay. You give yourself permission to lean into what matters most in that moment.
In another season, the pace slows. Work is less busy, and you focus on health and train consistently, prepare nutritious meals, and prioritise rest. Maybe it's also the season for relationships, you pour your energy into reconnecting with loved ones or build a deeper connection with your partner.
Seasons don’t need to be short-term. The above examples could be anywhere from a season lasting a week or two to a few months. But, other seasons can stretch over years. You might dedicate a few years to build your career or grow a business. Then, once the foundation is set, you shift into a maintenance phase, creating space for other passions or priorities.
This approach isn’t about neglecting areas of your life. It’s about recognising that you can’t give 100% to everything, all at once, without burning out.
When I stopped chasing balance and started embracing seasons, I felt lighter. No longer do I feel guilty for letting one area take a back seat. I have learned to focus fully on what mattered most in the present, knowing that other priorities will have their time too, eventually.
There’s a quiet freedom in this mindset. You’re no longer at war with yourself, trying to do it all. Instead, you’re moving with life, not against it.
As you think about your life, ask yourself:
What season am I in right now?
What’s the most important priority for me in this moment?
Where can I let go temporarily, to give this priority more attention?
Lean into your current season with intention and grace. Let go of the guilt that comes with not "balancing" it all. Trust that life’s rhythm will bring another season, one where you can redirect your energy as needed.
Here’s to living a life of seasons, with less stress, more purpose, and the freedom to thrive in one area at a time.
Have a great week,
Dr Yath Prem, MD
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