When I was in college working to obtain my bachelor’s in business management, if someone told me that one day I would grow up to become an acrobat, I would have told them they’d lost their mind. Pigs had a better chance of sprouting wings and taking to the sky than I had of navigating a trapeze. Yet here I sit ten years later, constantly walking a tightrope as I try to balance work and home life.
It is so important to me to have a successful career and continue to be an involved, caring wife, mother, and daughter. But how can this balance be achieved? How can I have my cake and eat it too? Well, the answers to these questions are ever changing because the work to maintain balance is ever changing. That being said, I have found two constants in my journey that help me realize my goals — mindfulness and flexibility.
When I start to feel off balance, stressed and overwhelmed by the world around me or the tasks in front of me, I practice mindfulness. By being mindful of the moment that we are in, we can take a deep breath and calm the mind. Doing this can then maximize time management, help identify priorities, improve concentration, and ensure objectives are met. This practice can be used daily at both work and home as you strive to find a balance.
Flexibility also plays a huge role in helping me as I fly through the air with the greatest of ease. At HORNE, we are very fortunate to practice what we call, Fearless Unrivaled Flexibility. Being able to utilize flexibility the way that I need it can greatly help attain that desired work-life balance. Flexibility allows me to be committed to HORNE values and provide the level of client service that we are known for, while also creating the independence needed to meet the demands of my home life. It is important, however, to remember that with flexibility comes great responsibility. To be successful at both work and home you have to give a little to get a lot. The objective is to utilize flexibility to be prosperous in our careers as well as our personal lives.
As I wrap up this circus act, it is important to remember that everyone strives for a sense of balance in their lives and that you are not alone on your path. I had a difficult time regaining momentum after returning from maternity leave and felt like I would never be able to have the best of both worlds. How could I meet those Friday deadlines and still make it to my daughter’s doctor appointment? Was I a bad wife for working instead of making dinner? With time, and balance, I have found success both at work and home. If you find yourself going through a similar situation — losing balance or needing guidance — reach out to those around you (other team members or your Full Potential Coach) for help. At HORNE, we are a family and we want to ensure the growth and happiness of all its members.
Jessica Loper is a supervisor on the government services team. She enjoys helping those around her navigate the tightrope in their lives, one act at a time.