Throughout my current art-related endeavor, I've been constantly reminded of one theme: BALANCE. In a way, I've also needed to remind others about it. After all, balance is a foundation of artistic aesthetics. Not every high-profile art form is designed in smooth symmetry. Yet, a degree of balance is always present to even out the elements, whether through a hint of hues or the placement of pieces. 🖼️🖋️
Such a fundamental concept eventually inspired this piece. Today is October 10, a double-digit or repetitive date. While it's not technically a palindrome, it consists of the same numerical value on both sides. A kind of numerical symmetry! They even out the scales to form what I often brand as "A Perfectly Balanced" day. ⚖️🔟
Why is that, you ask? Because, you know... what the number 10 and the 10th month generally represent and all? Okay, bear with me as we explore some symbolizations first. 😅🙏🏻
A Ten in Twofold
Based on Western (or Ancient Greek, to be accurate) astrology, the sun resides in the sign of LIBRA beginning around September 23 until October 22/23. Therefore, the first three weeks or the first half of October are definitely considered the heart of Libra Season. ♎
True to its constellation, Libra has the symbol of a weighing scale. You've probably known that by now, of course. Unless you've somehow avoided any knowledge surrounding horoscopes and/or astronomy all your life. Seriously, though, the word "Libra" itself means "Scales" in Latin and its original language. To further prove the notion, Ancient Rome later used the word as a unit of weight. Hence, unlike the metric system, which uses grams, a pound is always shortened as lb. 🌟
Fascinatingly, Libra is the only zodiac sign of the big twelve (or thirteen, if you prefer the newer version) that's represented by an object. Sure, Libra's origin is usually tied to Themis, the Goddess of Law and Order. However, the sign specifically represents her Scales of Justice, not the goddess herself. Thus, it makes logical sense why Libra often serves as a symbol of fairness, objectivity, and most of all, equal BALANCE. 🤷🏻
With the stars out of the way (it's daytime anyway 🌞), let's move on to the number TEN itself. Do you know that the double-digit debut in the decimal system is one of the happy numbers? No, I'm not kidding! It's a thing, just ask any mathematician. But if we explore further beyond its scholastic scope, the number ten has more to it than we think. 🔟
Ten is arguably rooted in humans, considering we generally have ten fingers on our hands and feet. It is how the idea or method of counting begins in a person's early years. Little kids use their fingers to understand numerical progression. And due to our physical/biological design that I just pointed out, the cycle always concludes in tens. 🙌🏻
Furthermore, several beliefs treat numbers to specific degrees, ten included. Biblically, ten is the symbol of completeness. In Judaism, ten is considered a holy number that represents union, a collection, or a framework for transformation. Pythagoreanism views the number as "unity arising from multiplicity," considering 1 + 2 + 3 + 4 = 10. They call it "the most perfect number" and a symbol of perfection or completeness. ⛪🕍🔺
Put two and two together—or rather, TEN (the month) and TEN (the date)? Then it's a combo that represents balance and perfection. In summary, a Perfectly Balanced date. Would you agree? 🤭
A Pursuit of Perfection
That brings me to a curious question: What does PERFECT mean? 🤔😐
For so long, humanity has pursued the idea of perfection. That mindset applies to all kinds of angles and disciplines, even from a young age. In many countries, including mine, schools usually mark 10 (or 100, which is, you know, 10 times 10) as the PERFECT SCORE. No mistake, no flaw! The Highest Point (rarely given, cough cough)! 💯
Yes, many of our academic institutions have shifted to the letter grading system in recent decades. But even an A or A+ remains equivalent to the numerical value of 8,0 to, drumrolls, 10,0. Other schools and universities opt for a grade based on excellence instead. Then again, an Excellent score is, in essence, just another name for Perfection. 👌🏻👍🏼
As such, most of us, if not everyone, are accustomed to chasing that ultimate score even after we have left the scholarly settings. We're always striving for the perfect job, idolizing those perfect pairings we see in the media, or dreaming of that perfect life partner. It's unconsciously ingrained in our heads to the point we tend to grade items or people the same way. How else did that viral TikTok-later-X trend "He’s a 10 but" come to be? 🤣
By the way, do you know there's even a WikiHow page for that? Hahaha. 🤭
Right on cue, according to the Cambridge Dictionary, the word "Perfect" refers to this list of definitions:
- Complete and correct in every way, of the best possible type or without fault.
- Exactly right for someone or something.
- To make something free from faults.
- Complete and right in every way; having nothing wrong.
- Exactly right for a particular purpose or situation; being the best possible.
Oof! That's a tall order, eh? Talk about one impeccable and, arguably, flawless word! Philosophically speaking, however, it's a question as old as time. And to help shed light on its ambiguity, Viktoriya Sus published a fascinating piece about it. Her writing explored various famous figures' perspectives, which unsurprisingly led to a similar conclusion:
"Perfection is a subjective, personal journey of continuous growth and authenticity."
Nobody (except GOD Almighty?) and nothing will ever be perfect in life. It's an imperfect world, after all. And, believe it or not, that's not just my personal take on the matter. Plato believed so, too. Perfection is always in the eye of the beholder. Or, as Jean-Paul Sartre noted, perfection is "Something one creates for oneself." What one thinks is perfect may not or never be the same as what others have in mind. 😌🙄
A Life for Work or a Work for Life?
Do you see yourself as a perfectionist? I don't consider myself to be one. That said, some of my friends and acquaintances have told me that I CAN seem like one. 😳
Come to think of it, maybe they're not so wrong after all. 🤔
Little, menial, fixable flaws DO bother me. Commenting on social media, for example, can be a chore if an EDIT function is available at all times. A missing space, a displaced apostrophe, a simple, harmless TYPO will trigger me to click that button and revise my lines. Once. Twice. Thrice. YIKES! Likewise, my writing would often go through repeated reviews until I "feel good" about it. That's why it may take some time to finalize. 😅🤦🏻♂️
But on the other side of the equation, it doesn't take a genius to see that I'm also not perfect in plenty of ways. I mean, didn't I recently share how I struggle keeping the puzzle pieces of my daily duties intact? The recurring burnout during my previous job is also evident enough. Right? Hahaha. Ugh! 😩
Nevertheless, I'm sure I'm not the only one juggling a lot on their hands. Otherwise, all those think pieces about the "Work and Personal Life Balance" wouldn't be so prevalent. In fact, more companies are now deploying means to support each individual's well-being. The concept of the Four Pillars of Wellbeing has aptly demonstrated it. 😲
It makes a lot of, if not perfect, sense, naturally. As a person ages, life delivers more professional demands, whether from school or job responsibilities. Then there's the societal, familial, and implicitly personal pressure to always be productive and successful. When those stack on top of one another, it may feel like an unending, heavy burden that hangs the person in a risky balance. A slight tip of the scales, and the tilted result might make or break said subject. Either they rise up exhaustingly to the top, or they go down to an overwhelmed low. ☝🏻👎🏻
To see where you might stand on this issue, some questions you can ask yourselves are:
- Am I genuinely enjoying my work? Or just trying not to feel overwhelmed by it... 💼
- Can I correctly share how my child is doing at school, remember the last time I celebrated my spouse or partner's achievement, or recall the funniest moment during my sibling's birthday party? 👨👩👧👦🎉
- Do I keep in touch with my friends, near and far? And say that I know what's happening in their colorful lives lately? 💬🌈
- Could I still find time, or even make time to engage in my hobbies? To do light exercises, at least... 🎨🏃♀️
- Would I feel guilty if I need to step away from my digital devices to, I don't know, uhm, rest? To dwell in delight, in the downtime? 📱🧘♀️
- Why am I doing everything I do? Is it because they fulfill me? Or simply because I have to... 🤔
- How am I really doing and feeling about my life in general right now? If I'm being frank, that is. 💭
- What kind of life will I see myself in a year, five years, or a decade from now? Would that be one where life always gets in the way? Or the other way around, where life gives all the way! 🌅
In the list above, the first four cover work, family, social, and self angles. A full-on "YES" as the answer to those means I'm green with envy at you! Hahaha. That hints you've already gotten a well-balanced life. And you probably sashayed yourself through the second half of the questions like a ballroom champion. Take pride in that! 💃🏻👍🏻
A Workaround That May Work
Of course, there's nothing wrong with getting less-than-perfect answers to those casual questions. After all, as explored before, perfection is subjective. There were only 8 points, anyway, so the total score would never net you a perfect 100. Oh, hey, but remember! 80 usually still counts as A. 😁
Grading jokes aside, you should be able to identify which areas you can improve from those points. Rome wasn't built in a day. Neither is our ability to balance life properly. While some may reach that goal easily, most of us require time and patience through slow but progressive efforts. Fortunately, guidelines and approaches are present to support the process. 😌
Have you heard of the 8-8-8 rule? It's not necessarily a perfect double 10. But having an 8 on each corner with a third sitting in the center does provide an equilibrium state. Right? ⚖️
The 8-8-8 rule is a time management technique that seems, well, simple and straightforward. It divides an entire day into three parts: 8 hours for focused work, 8 hours for leisure activities, and 8 hours for proper sleep. The three-way balance ensures all elements enrich one's productivity and happiness level. 💙
Sleep is the most self-explanatory part. Any human being needs to recharge their biological state, which in turn helps ensure the right stamina for the other two. Focused work can be a job or a study, but also includes the necessary short breaks to avoid burnout. Lastly, leisure activities refer to the time when we can incorporate distinct hobbies or moments for family and friends. That's equally important as sleep, considering this is where we infuse dopamine-boosting joy. 🙂🙋🏻♂️
In reality, this approach may require repeated practice to get the hang of it. We should be disciplined about switching on and off every 8-hour part, so one part doesn't spill into the next. Yet, at the same time, a degree of flexibility is also necessary. We may need to readjust the timeline or positioning for special cases, especially within the work hours window. Is the load of a job heavier than usual, physically or mentally? Then, it's wise to extend the break duration to ensure it doesn't exceed our capabilities. ⏱️⏳
Australia's health services echo and complement the 8-8-8 rule with their own advice. Their site reaffirms the importance of planning and exercising the right time management that suits your work-life circumstances. Likewise, it points out that we need to find the "perfect" ways through runs and reviews. Several additional pieces of advice enhance the rule even more, though. 😀
Little changes, such as shopping online, working from home, or organizing remote meetings, can reduce the significant time spent commuting. I can attest to this, as attending my current art project alone already swallows around 2 hours of my day, to and fro, not counting the hours on location. 🚌🏃🏻
Boundaries, too, are essential. Yes, we're connected almost 24/7 thanks to the advancement of the digital era. However, that doesn't always need to be the case, too! Social media will not go anywhere if we don't visit them. They'll still be there, endlessly scrolling through their toxic reels. Going fully off the grid, or at least firmly resolute not to accept work-related communication once we're beyond office hours, is ALWAYS an option. 🌐❌
More importantly, if our office doesn't support that, nor our well-being? Probably it's no longer the place where we should pour our efforts. Know and embrace our values and worth. If we enjoy our work, then the likelihood of it driving us into depression would be minimal. And even when there are unpleasant challenges, we will likely stay motivated to stay there anyway. Particularly, if the place can maintain a welcoming and supportive atmosphere from our co-workers or leaders. 🏢🤗
A Little Thing Called "Doing Nothing"
The final point on the Health Direct site is "Have downtime." Honestly, reading the closing example tickled my giggle. It reminded me of an essay by Robyne Hanley-Dafoe in Psychology Today.
Despite my instant lighthearted response, that isn't exactly a laughable matter. "Doing Nothing" is a real, beneficial thing! For one, it DOES fit into the 8 hours of leisure activity rule. It's nice that the essay wisely compares it to athletes and recovery time. Without ample recovery time, anyone engaging in prolonged physical activity will only have an increased risk of injuries. Been there, done that. 🤕😵
The key lies in the keyword "Nothing." In general, it usually means "the complete absence of anything, as the opposite of something and an antithesis of everything." But here's the twisted truth that's been argued by as far back as early Greek Philosophers: Nothing is never really nothing. In the case of human activities, that may indeed be the fact. 🤔
Just think about it. Even if someone calls and asks us, "What are you doing?" Providing "Nothing" as an answer doesn't necessarily mean we're non-functional like a smartphone that runs out of battery or a robot whose power source is turned OFF. During that state, what we "proclaim" as "nothing" may be resting on our laurels on the sofa, silently exchanging blinks and beams with our furry or feathered family members, and even the act of replying to that message. Eating a snack while pondering about how to "Try to take over the world" is most definitely NOT nothing. 👀🤣
Funnily enough, I used to think the opposite. Once, when I told my friend that I felt tired that week, he proposed, "Maybe you were too busy." In my head, I wasn't busy at all, as I didn't produce any significant results. At the time, I associated my activities with "not being productive." Researching and reading materials for my writing, doing Friends Quest on the language app, and replying to letters from my pen pals didn't "feel" like being busy. To me, it felt more like "doing nothing." But after I explained what I'd been doing, my friend replied, "So, yeah, you WERE busy all along." 😱😅
That might have been a poor example, I admit. But seriously, doing nothing always means we are doing something, just in a more relaxed manner. And that necessary downtime is often the peace and quiet our bodies need. 😴🎲
Writer Oliver Burkeman wrote for The Guardian a decade ago, "Too much busyness is counterproductive." Considering how I literally (physically) and figuratively (mentally and emotionally) crashed by forcing myself to stay busy to suppress my grief? Yes, Burkeman's words ring oh, so painfully true. I wasn't alone. Emma Gannon shared with the BBC that she, too, learned it the hard way. Apparently, my entire generation is the same, to the point that we have been branded a burnout generation. Ouch, that burns! That's how the likes of #SlowLiving and Quiet Quitting became a thing, I guess. 🤨🤷🏻♂️
In all honesty, doing nothing is not a bad thing. By doing so, we can brighten our brains or strengthen our bonds with the people we care about. It doesn't need an expensive escape to a hidden resort or anything luxurious. Talking about the daily dillydallies with the family while relaxing in a garden helps maintain the moment with them. A casual walk to the mall with friends, without any particular intention, can sometimes spark new fun ideas. Playing Pokémon games may end up leading to several writings that Google Gemini reviewed as "TOO DETAILED." Mwahaha. 😜
So, yeah. Try doing nothing for a change! It might just save a life. Your own, specifically. 😌🙏🏻
A Balancing Act of Balance
As I've started typing this final part of this piece, my mind can't help but wonder. "My goodness, this has gotten longer than I planned. AGAIN! Arrrghhh!" 🤦🏻♂️
Hahaha, okay, definitely not just that. "Have I achieved this so-called balance I talked about?" and "Have I, at least, juggled things better since my last post?" 🤔
My answer to both is no. Or perhaps, not yet. I'm still fumbling my way, figuring out a better time allocation system that will meet my needs. While it's a small step so far, I've cut back on a few activities, so my days don't feel too overwhelming. There might be some more down the line. I'm also working on pacing my progress without being too hard on myself if I can't complete everything. All in all, it's a constant work in progress, and that, in itself, is a good thing! 😉👍🏻
Hey! The fact that I'm here, writing again, and posting another piece after weeks of absence? That's something, eh? 😅
It's imperative that we understand and ultimately accept that being human means being limited. There's only so much that we can do or handle in one day. Even the most capable multitasker would know to take on things that won't exceed their limits. 🙆🏻♂️🙅🏻♀️
Such a limit applies to both the body and the brain. In the second episode of Brilliant Minds Season 2, Zachary Quinto's Oliver Wolf summed it nicely,
"A big breakup, going through the IVF process, working too hard, not sleeping enough, with huge hormonal fluctuations that provoke the worry, the stress, and the tonnage of those elements created a perfect storm for a mental break for you. You put enough pressure on a bone, and it will break. The brain is just as fragile. It can only take so much."
We should never forget that perfection is subjective and that comparing our limits to others' is futile. It's perfectly OKAY to NOT be perfect. 👌🏻💯
The overall desire for balance is, fittingly, a balancing act on its own. Focusing on our top priorities, ones that don't sacrifice quality time for ourselves and our loved ones, can provide the pointers to do so. It's all about ensuring that our work/job, physical rest, and downtime are in tandem with one another. And that such a delicate composition helps keep us in check, in health and happiness, without breaking us down into pieces. ❤️☺️
October 10 has been declared World Mental Health Day since 1992. So, if you can, try making your mental health a priority. And if you haven't, start today! Aim for the balance that feels right in your life. It'll do you good in the long run. More importantly, may it lead you to your own Perfectly Balanced way, even when life adds a bit of weight. 🙆🏻♂️⚖️🤷🏻♂️
YOU GOT THIS! 😉👍🏻
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