There is a hidden challenge in gearing down from a career or job in corporate North America and shifting to the next chapter in our lives. Some of us make this change deliberately. Others find the decision made for them through layoffs, job loss or the devastation of their financial assets. The challenge is finding the answers to living a balanced lifestyle in a completely new game with no limits.
Three things – structure, community and purpose – are all needed to maintain that balance in life that we strive for. If any one of three is absent it is like a leg missing from the tripod. The other remaining two are not enough to create a fulfilling and balanced life.
Structure
As we start any new chapter in our lives, it is essential to understand that we must establish a new structure or daily routine to replace what we have left behind. People who live long lives have set routines they follow, either consciously or unconsciously.
That routine or structure may be as simple as starting each day with tai chi, or working out for a set time. For others, it may consist of routines at work – planning the day and following that plan. Perhaps you decide to start a home business. Schedule the hours you’ll work, and stick to it. You empower yourself through your structures.
Community
Our community often is the company and people we work with. It can be a neighborhood with close friends, or a tightly knit family. When we leave that behind either with a physical move, job loss or retirement, a void is created that needs to be filled.
Many find that new community online, connecting with others who have similar values and interests. We can even reconnect with family, old friends and business associates through social media like Facebook and LinkedIn. However personal contact with others is an essential component of a balanced life. Making new friends or becoming part of a group with like interests after relocating can be daunting, but it is essential to your well-being.
Purpose
And then there is the question of purpose – why are we doing whatever it is we do? What inspires us to add value to society? Without understanding our “why” we won’t keep going when we face challenges of life. Others will not be inspired by our leadership, or become close friends.
Understanding your “why” can be one of the most important things you can do to attain balance, as it can lead you to new friendships, new community, and even the creation of new structures. It is the most important leg of that tripod.
If we look inward to find these answers to establish structure, community and purpose in this new chapter in our lives, and plan for the changes, we are likely to find ourselves living a fulfilled, balanced lifestyle.
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