Have you ever experienced that “ah-ha” moment that made you realize that your life really HAD changed?
As a strategic coach, I’ll be the first to admit that years ago, my life was horribly out of balance. It was one dimensional. It consisted primarily of my business. I worked – ate – and slept my occupation. A medical diagnosis was the catalyst I needed to make some long-overdue changes.
I won’t tell you that the inner work required was easy. I had to take myself kicking and screaming to the depths of change that would have the greatest impact on how I was going to live my life.
The journey, at times, has seemed horribly slow with seemingly few signs of actual change – until that fortunate morning when I realized that the indicator of my accomplishing an improved work/life balance was humorously reflected in my shoe wardrobe.
Imelda Marcos I am not. However, I have noticed that my shoe apparel seems to reflect how far I’ve come in my travels. Years ago, I essentially owned one type of shoe – the 2″ pump. Curiously, my foot garb has expanded to reflect my many developing interests in my pursuit for balance.
It now consists of walking sneakers, cushy running shoes, red rubber yard clogs, sleek biking shoes, dusty hiking boots, comfy house slippers, professional loafers, casual clogs, and, oh yes, the 2″ pump. In addition to owning such a variety of footwear – they’re actually getting used!
So, there you have it. My declaration is complete.
How do you define balance for yourself? What indicators do you use to measure how you’re doing with equilibrium in your life? Is it time to evaluate your footwear? Don’t let a crisis be the vehicle that takes you shoe shopping!
