I have recently been pondering the validity of my expectations regarding the work-life balance. My main questions involve my expectations regarding the relationship between a “solid schedule” and comfortable work environment, and being happy with my income. In the process, I came across an article by Eric Sinoway in the Harvard Business Review titled “No, You Can’t Have It All”. As the title of the article reveals, the author’s opinion is that despite what we have been taught, we can’t have it all. To me, that means it is unlikely that comfort and growth, or pleasant schedule and sufficient income, will be a reality in my current season of life.

I have been gaining a clearer insight into my thinking around this issue in the past few months. Despite my desire to have otherwise, the truth is that I can’t have it both ways. More income and professional growth will likely mean more discomfort. In the article mentioned above, Sinoway (2012) states “You cannot pursue all your goals simultaneously or satisfy all your desires at once. And it’s an emotional drain to think you can. Instead, you must focus on long-term fulfillment rather than short-term success and, at various points in your life, think carefully about your priorities” (para 3). I find his candor refreshing. While it is nice to think that we might be able to provide for ourselves and our families by putting in “the 4-hour workweek”, reality for the clear majority is different. Ultimately, seeking a balance will require making some tough decisions.

Do you feel that you have a realistic expectation of what it will take for you to find your definition of success?

Do most people seem in tune with what it will take to achieve their goals?

Sinoway, E. (October, 2012). No, You Can’t Have It All. Retrieved from https://hbr.org/2012/10/no-you-cant-have-it-all .