My Personal Philosophy on Balance

For me, the essence of balance lies in the "how" rather than the "what." Over the years, I’ve developed a habit of reflecting on whether an activity makes me feel energized or drained. Key questions I frequently ask include:

• Does this activity ignite my passion or leave me feeling flat?
• Will it help me return to my center or push me off-balance?

There are effective heuristics to guide these reflections, but first, it’s crucial to understand the real dilemma we face: finding that delicate balance between experiences that ground us and those that throw us off-kilter.

Another important consideration is that our approach to balance evolves with our life stages and personal development.

The Pyramid of Balance™ Model

What influences our decisions on how to structure our days? Are certain personality types drawn to specific balancing methods?

Inspired by Maslow's hierarchy of needs, I developed the concept of the "Pyramid of Balance." Initially, many of us approach life as a trade-off between earning money and engaging in non-earning activities.

As we grow, our understanding of what constitutes a valuable return on investment broadens, shifting focus to our inner experiences. Regardless of where you currently stand on this pyramid, the ultimate goal is to ascend to what I term "Buddha Balance," allowing this equilibrium to permeate all aspects of your existence.

Three Guidelines for Navigating the Pyramid of Buddha Balance

1. Digital vs. Physical Engagement

   Contrary to popular belief, I don’t view work and life as opposing forces. Instead, the real challenge lies in balancing our digital interactions with our physical experiences.

My recent strategy has been to harmonize these two worlds. For example, I often prefer to engage in real-world activities—like face-to-face meetings or diving into a physical book—over digital distractions.

Creating a Balanced Digital-Physical Approach:

One way I foster this balance is by opting for the analog method, even if it’s less efficient. For instance, I choose to write by hand in the morning instead of typing on my laptop, transforming it into a fulfilling exercise.

2. Engaging in Deep vs. Shallow Work

   Cal Newport, in his book "Deep Work," differentiates between cognitively demanding tasks and lighter, administrative work. Engaging predominantly in shallow tasks can lead to burnout.

Newport suggests that while deep work is essential, it’s not feasible to engage in it all day due to the mental strain it incurs. Balancing deep work with lighter tasks is crucial for maintaining mental health.

Finding Your Optimal Deep-Shallow Work Balance:

I find alternating between periods of deep and shallow work to be effective—spending focused hours in the morning on challenging tasks and reserving afternoons for lighter, administrative duties.

3. Active vs. Sedentary Lifestyle

   Living in Whistler has reshaped my view on activity levels. The locals prioritize active living, seamlessly integrating physical engagement into their daily routines.

Achieving a Healthy Active-Sedentary Balance:

Consider shifting your next business meeting to a walk around the block instead of sitting at a desk. Incorporating standing desks or biking to work can also help combat sedentary habits.

Ultimately, wherever you find yourself on this pyramid, the key is to aim for Buddha Balance and let that equilibrium influence every facet of your life. For more insights and actionable strategies, consider exploring Prajakta's latest book, "Buddha Balance: Work-Life Balance for Professionals and Parents On-The-Go."

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