Is it possible to balance work and life; can we really have it all?  I am a mom of two high-spirited and adventurous young girls (never a dull moment around our house – zero exaggeration!) I have an amazing husband and a job that I love. I’ve been plugging away at the work life balance thing for quite some time and more often than not, it’s REALLY messy!

The one thing I know for certain, though, is that when I take care of myself FIRST, life is much better for everyone involved.

For those of you who have ever flown on an airplane, one of the important safety rules in case of emergency is “always put your oxygen mask on first.”  This completely resonates with me. I’ve slowly learned to let go of things and to take time for myself, even if that translates into shutting myself in my bedroom for 10 minutes of peace and quiet without someone yelling “Mama, Mama, Mama, Mama!!.”

Most of us need help with adding more “life” to our work/life equation. Brene Brown Ph.D., L.M.S.W, a research professor, thought leader on vulnerability, and author of The Gifts of Imperfection, argues that Play and Rest are critically important to leading a wholehearted life. What’s a “Wholehearted Life?”  Brene describes wholehearted living as “…cultivating the courage, compassion, and connection to wake up in the morning and think, No matter what gets done and how much is left undone, I am enough.” My translation – Give yourself a break; you are human!

I know what you are thinking. Is this lady telling me I should play and take naps instead of getting my work done? Is she serious?! I am one of the worst offenders here; I hate naps! Brene understands the challenge that is presented to us in our world today when we ask ourselves to play and rest.  She notes

“in today’s culture — where self-worth is tied to our net worth, and we base our worthiness on our level of productivity – spending time doing purposeless activities is rare. For many of us, down time and play sound like an anxiety attack waiting to happen.”

So what is the solution? If you know me at all, you know that I like to make lists and –even more so — I like to check things off the list! Brene suggests the best way to incorporate more play and rest in our lives is to make a list. (I love this lady!)  Make a list of the ingredients for joy and meaning in your life.  Consider that less is more.  List the simple things like getting enough sleep, working out, cooking or choosing meals that nourish your body, volunteering, carving out time with family and friends.  These are all priceless ways to incorporate rest, play, joy, and meaningful interactions with the important people in your life. Start there.  Build from the playground up. That is the key to balancing work and life.