As a young professional, you are already aware of what it takes to get ahead, and you know how valuable your time is. Being a member of St. Paul JCI allows you to make valuable connections with other young professionals and leaders in the community and business. It also provides an opportunity to hone leadership skills, help solve community issues and give back to the community. 

Your time with JCI can be exciting, productive and meaningful. It is an investment in time well-spent as well as an investment in your own professional development. On the other hand, if you are always expending energy on professional development in or outside of work and not taking time for yourself, a balance may be missing from your life.

Time for Reflection

This time of year can be hectic and exhausting, yet it is also a very good time to reflect and take stock of where you are, where you want to go and how you want to get there. It is a good time to check the balance of your life and make plans for change, if necessary.

You can find loads of information about life/work balance online. Many address at least 5 areas of life that need to be balanced – some, as many as 12. The 5 main areas are:

  • Spirituality – which includes your values, principles and spiritual development

  • Mind – includes all things with education and can include your creative side

  • Body – health, exercise, and physical wellbeing

  • Relationships – this includes family, work and friends

  • Work – all things associated with your career path and goals

At its core, finding balance means developing a sense of wellbeing in the areas of life that hold the most meaning for you. Too much play could land you in the poor house, but too much work could land you in the hospital. During this season, take stock of how you are investing time in yourself, your loved ones and your work.

Identify the areas that need more attention and write down the ways in which you can improve. When you find balance in life, you will also find more happiness.