What Does Balance Really Mean?
For a long time, I thought balance meant giving equal attention to everything—work, home, health, faith, family, hobbies—like each part of life deserved exactly 10% of me, every day, no matter what. But that kind of perfection just isn’t realistic.
The world is busy. Life is unpredictable. Things change fast. And if we’re being honest, balance—real, livable balance—isn’t about being perfectly divided.
It’s about being intentional with our time so we don’t look back and regret that we never made space for the things that truly mattered.
The “Monthly Average” Approach to Balance
Here’s what I’ve come to believe:
Balance isn’t something we measure in a single day. It’s something we look at over time.
There are weeks when work takes over. Or the house needs deep cleaning. Or family needs our full attention. There are also seasons where we feel pulled away from faith or haven’t seen friends in months. I’ve been through all of it.
And that’s okay.
Instead of chasing a perfect day, I try to zoom out and look at the bigger picture. If one week is all work, the next I might carve out time for prayer, creativity, or quiet walks. If I had zero “me time” last month, I’ll be more mindful of protecting it next month.
It’s a balance that fluctuates—but still honors the things that matter.
Why Balance Matters for Mental and Physical Health
I’ve learned I need both stillness and purpose.
I need quiet time with the Lord, space to create, and movement to keep my body strong. But I also need meaningful work—something that lights a fire in me. Without one or the other, I start to feel off-balance emotionally and physically.
And that’s what balance really is:
A rhythm that fuels your whole self—not just what looks good on paper.
How My Husband and I Plan for It (Imperfectly)
My husband and I started doing something last year that has helped, even though we’re still figuring it out. Throughout the year, we sit down and ask:
What are the things we really want to do?
Not just the practical stuff—but the things that matter deeply to us.
We write it all down, add it to our calendar, and try to leave open space between each commitment. It doesn’t make every week easy or slow—but it gives us a map to follow, instead of drifting week to week and missing the things we really want to do.
It’s not perfect, but it helps ensure we follow through on what’s important to us—and still leave breathing room to sprinkle in whatever life throws our way.
When Everything Feels Like Too Much
There are still days I feel like I’m dropping the ball. That I’m not doing enough. That everyone else seems to have it figured out—but I don’t.
Building The Maple Falls over the last three years—while being a one-person team—has stretched me. I’m still learning how to do everything, create success, and balance my personal life while figuring out what I’m actually capable of keeping up with.
But then I remind myself:
Balance isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence.
Did I show up for what mattered today?
Did I give myself grace when I couldn’t?
Did I let God into the mess of it?
That’s what counts.
There are weeks I miss my workouts, or I’m completely consumed with housework—or just overwhelmed by trying to take control of everything.
Nonetheless, it’s a goal I’m striving for.
It’s in my prayers (though I know I need to pray a little more).
And it’s something I won’t give up on.
A Gentle Reminder for You
You don’t have to be perfectly balanced.
Be honest about what matters to you—and make little moves toward it. The rest will shift and grow as you do.
What’s one small thing you could make space for this week?
You’re not behind—you’re just finding your own rhythm.
