Do you feel you never have enough time to do the things you really want to do?
Is it hard to put aside work, to make time for other important things in your life?
I certainly struggle with this. I want to work more, to achieve my business goals, but then, I have end up compromising other things I value, like workouts, reading, or time with my family.
As a coach, I know that we can design the life we want, and that it’s usually mental blocks that get in the way. Or a perspective that isn’t serving us. And I’ve recently had an old, culturally engrained perspective totally blown open.
We live in a world that glorifies a “growth economy” where value is placed on bottom lines and bank accounts going up and up, requiring us to work harder, faster, and longer hours than ever before. Most of us buy into this perspective that growth = success.
But there’s a new perspective that I can’t wait to share with you. Have you heard of it?
Steady State Economy
In the conclusion of Johann Hari’s book “Stolen Focus: Why You Can’t Pay Attention – and How to Think Deeply Again”, he writes:
“[W}e don’t have to live like this. My friend, Dr. Jason Kickel, who is an economic anthropologist at the University of London, … has been explaining for a long time that there is an alternative… called a ‘steady-state economy.’ We would abandon economic growth as the driving principle of the economy and instead choose a different set of goals. At the moment we think we’re prosperous if we are working ourselves ragged to buy things – most of which don’t even make us happy. … We could redefine prosperity to mean having time to spend with our children, or to be in nature, or to sleep, or to dream, or to have secure work. Most people don’t want a fast life – they want a good life. Nobody lies on their deathbed and thinks about all that they contributed to economic growth. A steady-state economy can allow us to choose goals that don’t raid our attention, and don’t raid the planet’s resources.”
This weekend, I’m so grateful I took the time to head out into nature for a camping trip with my family and friends. Outside of cell reception, it was a time to disconnect from devices and work responsibilities, and instead truly notice my surroundings and be with my loved ones. Hiking through this mossy green forest, with golden sunrays streaming down through gently swaying pines brought such peace and gratitude. THIS is life.
They say we’re best able to help others with the things we “had to learn”.
If you’re looking for:
- greater balance between work and life
- help identifying your values and priorities, and making time for them
- a good life, not a fast life
- accountability with the above
I can help!
I’m a leadership and mindset coach (CPCC, ACC) who helps purpose driven leaders take bold steps towards their dream lives. To face fear, get clarity, shift perspectives, process emotions, and ultimately become the person you want to be.
Click here to set up a free coaching sample session.
Camilla combines careful listening, acceptance, enthusiasm and challenge to help all her clients reach their maximum potential.
- The Power of Authenticity – How to Show Up Authentically in Every Occasion - May 10, 2024
- How to have a good life - September 13, 2023
- Finding True Confidence through Self-Love and Acceptance - May 25, 2023