As you embark on your career or start your own business, it’s natural to feel unbalanced, tired, and stressed. You may find yourself pouring all of your energy into your work, sacrificing time with family and friends, and neglecting self-care.
It’s okay to give everything you’ve got to achieve your goals, even if it means making sacrifices.
The Pressure to Find Balance
However, there’s a concerning trend in the entrepreneurship and personal development world that advocates for finding balance at all costs.
Many successful entrepreneurs and industry experts preach about the importance of balance and self-care, often making it seem like the only way to achieve success. They may say things like “work smarter, not harder” or “prioritise self-care above all else.”
The Reality of Success
The truth is, achieving your dreams may require significant sacrifices and hard work. I know this was certainly the case when I was studying my Level 7 CIPD qualification whilst working full time and setting up my own business.
Many successful business professionals achieved their goals by giving it their all and going all-in on their businesses or careers. It’s not fair for them to tell others that they “must” find balance when they know that they didn’t necessarily achieve their success by prioritising balance. This is something that I found happens much later on, and why I am always honest about my journey as a business owner, it’s not all about the luxury holidays, Instagram perfect pictures, and glamourous designer clothing – most of the time I am exhausted even though I regularly ensure that exercise, healthy eating and looking after myself are a regular occurrence in my routine.
Don’t be fooled by the picture perfects, I assure you, it is not real.
The Importance of Staying True to Yourself
Ultimately, the decision to give it your all or find balance is entirely up to you. You know yourself best and what you’re capable of. It’s essential to stay true to yourself and do what feels right for you. If you feel energised by working long hours and going all-in, then do that. If you need to set boundaries and take breaks to maintain your well-being, then do that.
The Price of Discipline vs. Regret
Regardless of which path you choose, it’s important to remember that the price of discipline is always less than the price of regret. Don’t let short-term discomfort hold you back from achieving your long-term goals. It’s okay to feel unbalanced and to make sacrifices in the short-term if it means achieving your dreams in the long-term.
Finding balance in your career or business is important, but it’s not the only path to success. Many successful entrepreneurs and industry experts achieved their goals by giving it their all and making sacrifices. Ultimately, the decision to prioritise balance or give it your all is up to you. What matters most is that you stay true to yourself, do what feels right for you, and don’t let short-term discomfort hold you back from achieving your long-term goals.
Find Your Own Path
As you navigate your career or business journey, it’s essential to find a path that works for you. Don’t let external pressures or expectations dictate how you should approach your work and life. Instead, take the time to reflect on what feels right for you and what will help you achieve your long-term goals. Whether that means giving it your all or finding balance, trust your instincts and stay true to yourself.
Remember, the price of discipline is always less than the price of regret. So, don’t be afraid to make short-term sacrifices to achieve your long-term dreams.
What are your thoughts on this? Let me know in the comments!
Natalie Ellis HR 