A Balanced Point of View

-By Dieter Pauwels

We are living in a fast paced world and it seems to be moving faster each year. With more commitments, schedules, to-do lists, appointments, voice mails and e-mails, we often experience increased stress and a sense of being overwhelmed.

The word balance implies a sense of movement. Balance is a dynamic process and can only exist in the midst of action. Balance happens in accordance with a certain rhythm. You are either moving toward balance, away from balance, or through balance.

Balance is also a deep personal experience. Some people experience balance by slowing down, taking some time off, or pursuing a simpler lifestyle. Others want to experience balance by living life in the fast lane.

Do you sometimes feel your life is out of balance? Do you sometimes envision your life with less tension, less stress, pressure, and more balance?

Often we feel trapped by circumstances over which we have little control. I hear it when people say things like: "It's out of my control", "That's just the way it is", or "I have no other choice."

One of the reasons we feel out of balance is because we have become so attached to one (limited) perspective. You will only see what you are looking for. When you get stuck in only one point of view, you are less resourceful and will easily blame circumstances you have little control over.

What choices are you making that will keep you from moving toward more balance and fulfillment in your life? What other choices could you make? What would your world look like if were committed to those choices?

Recognizing that you do have choices is the first step in regaining a sense of balance. When choice is gone, so is your sense of balance, and with it the possibility of fulfillment.

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