Friday, September 25, 2009

10-10-10...work life balance, er, choices

So, I just finished reading (okay, breezing through) a book called 10-10-10. It's about a process for making decisions based on your core values and what the consequences of each option will be in 10 minutes, 10 months, and 10 years.

There is a whole chapter on work-life. She calls it work-life choices, not work-life balance as she believes there is no such thing as balance. It's a myth. A radical idea, but one worth considering. One of her quotes in the book is as follows:
Time and again, I've encountered women who are struggling through a 10-10-10, thinking it has the magical ability to put their lives into perfect "balance," with a big job, great kids, a happy marriage, fun vacations, and toned thighs. Invariably, I tell them something's gotta give. Eliminate two of those goals. Or be realistic-eliminate three.
Yikes. That hit home. And you know what? I think it's sorta kinda maybe a little bit true. And that, my friends, is one damn bitter pill to swallow. Okay, SS is a little glum today, but still...

Your thoughts?

2 comments:

  1. I think its totally true... I really don't think there is a perfect balance between work & a home life. I don't have kids in my equation and really don't see how people with them even think there is a balance. it's hard enough to keep things going without factoring in kids. You working parents totally have my respect!

    And as for the glum part - read your previous post - its hilarious. B & I were rolling!!

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  2. Words of wisdom...that's what I think. I had the big career, loved it. Came into parenting and motherhood with a HUGE fall from my career identity and have come to realize that 'you can have it all, but not all at once'. It's humbling and a bit of a relief for me to think I don't need to be everything to everyone and balance a career. Having said that - everyone has to find their own groove - and when you find it,roll with it! And, whew - so glad someone else thinks I should scratch toned thighs off my list of priorities. What a relief!

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