A month out: The Ultimate Work-Life Balance Reset
Life is a juggling act, and if you’re anything like me—a business owner, football team leader, school governor, and above all, a devoted wife, mother, daughter, and friend—you know that the balls in the air never really seem to decrease. We take on multiple roles, each demanding time, effort, and emotional bandwidth. But what happens when you pause, let some balls stay up in the air, and take a step back?
Finding My Balance
This summer, like last summer, we decided to do just that—take a month off and travel to Manilva, Spain, with my family. Nestled along the Costa del Sol, Manilva offered the perfect backdrop to rediscover the simple joys of life.
Wellness on Vacation
I’ve always been a firm advocate of personal well-being. I exercise daily, follow the Wim Hof breathing techniques, and even take cold showers to stay invigorated. In Manilva, I continued my self-care routines, although with an added touch of Spanish indulgence. A glass of fine local wine or a couple of brandies became my companions as I enjoyed sunset views.
A Culinary Journey
Eating well doesn’t have to mean depriving yourself. Spain’s Mediterranean cuisine made it easy to enjoy delicious meals without feeling like I was overindulging. Fresh fish and salads and daily fasting until gone midday kept everything in check.
Though I love the thought of endless ice cream and desserts, opting for fresh fruits and local produce was hardly a sacrifice against the rich tapestry of Spanish flavors.
Kids on Adventure
Our children penned journals, capturing their daily adventures—swimming in the azure waters, jet skiing, and even spotting dolphins! We also took the opportunity to introduce them to nature, taking them up mountains and letting them witness the glory of sunrises.
Lean Team, Happy Business
Running a business comes with an ever-present weight of responsibility, but an exceptional team back home managed everything seamlessly. From the serene beaches of Manilva, I provided occasional guidance but mostly observed from a distance, appreciating the autonomy and proficiency of my crew.
Rediscovering Simple Pleasures
The beauty of this vacation lay in the ordinary moments—playing cards with the kids, role-playing games, staying on the beach until 9 pm, and indulging in lazy mornings. These are the tiny threads that weave the fabric of cherished memories.
The Takeaway: Life is for Now
In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to defer life for the future. But life is happening now. By dedicating this time to step back and bask in life’s simplest joys, I’ve been reminded that life’s true riches often lie in moments of stillness and togetherness.
Final Thoughts: A Supporting Pillar
Behind every ambitious person is a supporting pillar. For me, it’s my incredible husband. His unwavering support has been instrumental in my business growth and the ability and freedom to take time out decision.
Striking a Balance for Tomorrow
So, if you find yourself overwhelmed with responsibilities, consider taking some time off. You might find that stepping back not only recharges you but also enriches those around you. Life is for now, but by finding balance today, we’re ensuring a more fulfilling tomorrow.
It’s not about feeling guilty for taking time off; it’s about recognising that investing in ‘now’ is also a promise for a better ‘tomorrow.’
