Searching for the right balance

For years, I thought balance meant splitting my energy between work and personal life: giving my all to my profession, my children, my family, and trying to save a little time for myself.

But I often ended up exhausted, stressed, and putting myself last.

Today, I see balance differently: it’s not about work vs. life, but about joy vs. non-joy. My goal is to consciously maximise what brings me energy and fulfillment, while minimising what drains me.

This doesn’t mean avoiding responsibilities or challenges; paying bills on time, or pushing through a tough project at work, might not feel “joyful” in the moment, but they give peace of mind and open doors to growth.

What it does mean is making space for what lights me up: my coaching practice, learning, connecting deeply with people, and caring for myself. When I do that, I’m more present and generous with my family, friends, and clients.

This shift has transformed how I live each day. And maybe it can inspire you too: what would change if you looked for joy first?

Reflection: your enjoyment balance

Take 10–15 minutes to reflect and write down your answers to these questions:

1. Where am I right now?: Looking at my daily life, what percentage feels like enjoyment, and what percentage feels like non-enjoyment?

2. What belongs where?: Which activities, people, or commitments give me energy, joy, or peace? Which ones drain me or go against my values?

3. What’s one shift I can make?: What’s a small change I could try this week (either adding something joyful, or reducing something draining) that would bring my balance a little closer to where I want it to be?

4. How do I want to feel at the end of the day?: Imagine yourself closing your eyes at night. What would make you think, “Yes, this was a good day”?

✨ I'm Raquel, a certified coach and mentor dedicated to helping people build deeper self-awareness, greater mental & emotional wellbeing, and a life aligned with what truly matters.