As we progress through different versions of ourselves over time—versions we bring about through our thoughts and actions—how are we able to distinguish and hold onto the things we find important? Over the years, I have been continuously molded into an individual who focuses on three main points. These points guide my actions and thoughts and also give me drive and motivation to be better for my family, my students, and my friends. During my time within the collegiate recreation field, I have been obsessed with three things: leading students, mentorship, and balance.
Every student and professional has been through a period in their life when the scales have tipped too far or when—for an extended period of time—they have not equaled out. What is balance and how do we define it? How do we incorporate balance into our everyday lives? How are we able to balance the things we are passionate about?
I believe the concept of balance is different for everyone as we all move through the seasons of our careers. I recall Mike Warren, Senior Associate Director at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, describing balance as being more of a blend of life’s elements. I love this definition and it’s stuck with me. I used to believe balance was like a juggling act: all things going simultaneously in constant motion. While things are in motion, you’re able to give ample time and concentration to each element so it all equals out to a whole. Now I view balance as more of a boiling pot of stew or soup. Every individual I serve the soup or stew to is a goal or project I’m working toward. The stew should taste different for every individual since the blend of ingredients that will be best for them will be different.
Work, school, family, and a social life never equal out completely. Life never turns out exactly how we would like it to. Instead of trying to balance the scales of life, I prefer to try to blend the aspects of my life to create happiness within an ever-changing environment. During one month, I’ll need to give my maximum amount of energy to my work. The next month I may need to be in more frequent contact with my family, even potentially making a trip down to Oklahoma to spend time with them. Every month, you must figure out a blend of elements that works best for your needs and the purpose you’re striving towards.
There are weeks when you’re very busy with school or work, and there are other weeks when you can take time to catch up on your personal life. No matter what kind of week it is, try to balance the elements of your life so you’re getting the most of what you want and need. I have fallen when I try to keep to a rigid schedule because doing so means I often lose sight of what I hold true and where my real purpose lies. It’s important that I keep the balance of my life’s different elements in mind; I have to stay aware of different stew ingredients at all times because every week requires a different stew recipe.
In my first post as your NIRSA Student Leader, I would like to ask you to take time to analyze and find out what balance means to you. How would you define it, and how will balance allow you to be a better person in all areas of your life? I challenge you to find your own mix or blend for the sake of balance, and encourage you to start creating a life of happiness and harmony.
Corbin Ross is currently the Strength Training & Conditioning Graduate Assistant at the University of Nebraska.
