Sunday, July 25, 2010

Out of Balance

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about the importance of living one’s life in balance. This is, of course, because I am absolutely NOT living my life in this way at the moment. And while I certainly never intended for things to get so lopsided, nevertheless, they are.

Consistently working over-time at a job that gives me much too little in return, in combination with all the responsibilities that go along with maintaining a busy family household, have left me running pretty close to empty most of the time. It’s to the point now that even things that have always brought me pleasure – like blogging and keeping in-touch with good friends - just seem like more chores I’ve committed myself to doing.

I find myself fantasizing about winning the lottery – imagining how different my life would be if only… But of course, pinning one’s future happiness on this isn’t exactly practical. And when I break my dreams down to the specifics of what I need, ultimately what emerges is the desire for a peaceful home, meaningful work, time to do what I enjoy most, and the ability to positively affect the world around me. So is having more money really key to making this happen? Or is it just an excuse for not making some tough decisions now?

I’m thinking what I actually need is a realistic plan, which begins with taking a hard look at what in my life isn’t working. Then, for those areas identified as needing redirection, I need to map out how to get from where I am now to where I really want to be.  And finally – the real key – I need to follow through and make it happen.

11 comments:

Monkey Man said...

Sound analysis and advice. Happiness comes from within and we all forget that from time to time.

Captain Shagrat said...

really love the picture with this post, it reminds me of Tinuviel dancing in the woods. I also find myself questioning but in the end we already know the answers as you say.

Brian Miller said...

read a great book...making room for life...by randy frazee...along similar lines...i understand exactly how you feel though...

Dulçe ♥ said...

WOW well. My dear friend... you've made a lot already just by writing it down. Money does not bring happines, but it helps.
Dreaming, even if about money, also helps, but dreaming must work only to us when we keep our feet on the floor and be aware of what is happening around. It all has to do with our vision of things.

Sometimes seeing the poverty, and misery of others also helps, because we realize, at least, that what we have we want to keep... and others do not even have that bit!

Joy always
D.

Wendilea said...

My life was going the same way two years ago when the greatest gift occurred... I got fired. I was devastated as I prided myself on being a model employee, albeit a little outspoken. I couldn't find work in any of my fields so I retired. I've downsized my life... no more luxuries, extravagant gifts, and countless donations to causes, but I'm finding a humble peace within that is so very precious. I hope you find what will bring you to your greatest joy. Brightest blessings Felicitas!

Tina said...

I'm in a completely different place, though emotionally, quite similar. For me, it just plain sucks. That you're able to articulate it is really key, I think. I'm wallowing. SIGH. Thanks so much for taking the time to visit me at Life is Good. I appreciate it so much.

Anonymous said...

I can relate to this in so many ways. It;s almost like I wrote this myself. That's how much I completely understand you. Pardon me but life can be such a bitch and I've noticed it;s the honest ones that want to play by the rules getting burnt out.

Anonymous said...

I can relate to this in so many ways. It;s almost like I wrote this myself. That's how much I completely understand you. Pardon me but life can be such a bitch and I've noticed it;s the honest ones that want to play by the rules getting burnt out.

Nevine Sultan said...

Felicitas, it seems we have been engaging in similar thoughts, lately. I am off of work for the summer but find myself dreading the return in a few weeks. It's not the job that is the trouble, I suppose, but time that is the challenge, rather. We all want the more meaningful life where we are not running around and so scattered that we do not have the time to even sit with ourselves for a while. And we all get to the point, sometimes, where we can't handle anymore, quite simply. I found myself at such a point in late May, and I took a break from everything that was not "necessary", including blogging, so I could pay more attention to myself and my home. It really helped, too. Sometimes, we can't stop life in its tracks. But we can certainly sift through things and see where we can apply extra pressure.

A very thought-provoking post, Felicitas. For all of us, I think.

Nevine

Anonymous said...

you know I have been here so many times... and I don't think its about finding out whats not working. i think we know go and well what it is... It doing it... yeah I know...

its making it happen and getting out of our comfort zone and doing what we know whould be good for us.. *sighs*

taking the first step is the hardest...



good luck and if you ever need any help just say so.....

Linda Bob Grifins Korbetis Hall said...

that's what I want but did not say it out aloud...

lovely thoughts.