Finding Balance: Embracing Imperfection in the Juggling Act of Life

September 23, 2023  |  5 min read

Emily Van Eps

Emily Van Eps

Life is a constant juggling act. Trying to balance the demands of being a wife, mom, sister, daughter, friend, workforce professional, and hobby writer is a non-stop, every day, all-consuming job. And that’s without adding in self-care, finding time for fitness, or any other societal pressures that our culture is currently heaping on top of the never-ending load.

I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling constantly overwhelmed by the ever-ticking clock and never-ending list of tasks. My brain is continually trying to decide what task lands at the top of the list next—which one is most important? Which will make me feel the most accomplished at the end of the day? Which will my husband or kids notice most?

In the daily trenches of these thoughts and task-mastering, I often lose sight of Who I matter to most and what He desires my life to look like. When I finally come to, and I can hit pause on my brain for a minute, I’m reminded of God’s grace and love for me, that it’s okay not to juggle all the balls every day; sometimes it’s about catching what matters most.

Here are a few additional reminders that help me to find balance in the day-to-day:

1. Embrace the Ebb and Flow

Day-to-day, our priorities shift. Some days, work may be extra busy and take center stage, while other days, my toddler may struggle and require my utmost attention. It’s crucial to recognize and embrace this ebb and flow of priorities as a natural part of life, not something to fight against.

2. Reframe your Thoughts around Self Care

Our culture tends to push the idea that self-care must be a day at the spa or a shopping trip where you spend hundreds of dollars on items for yourself. I challenge you to reframe your thoughts surrounding self-care—it can mean the difference between feeling burnt out all the time and feeling like you’re treating yourself multiple times a day. These moments of self-care can be as simple as putting on some soul-nourishing music while you wash the dishes or taking a moment to close your eyes and breathe in the fresh outside air while you’re at the park with your kiddos—just a minute or two to clear your mind, center yourself, and relax a bit is all it takes.

3. Emphasize Quality Time

Meaningful interactions—where you put down your device and make yourself fully present—are some of the most impactful moments in helping me feel like there’s generally less chaos in my life. Whether playing with my toddler, having a conversation with my husband, or simply just putting my phone down and actually watching a show rather than just listening to it—being able to cherish these moments brings joy and fulfillment to my daily life.

4. Remember God’s Grace

Release the pressure to achieve a “perfect daily balance.” Recognize that some days will be more challenging than others, and that’s completely normal. Remember that God is on your side, you’re doing your best, and that’s enough. A phrase I like to repeat to myself is: God’s got you, so you’ve got this.

Finding balance in the juggling act of life—homemaking and pursuing personal goals—is an ongoing journey. Embrace the imperfection. Remember that life is ever-changing; what matters most today may not even make the list a week from now. In your most challenging moments, lean on God and know He will carry you through.

Finding Balance: Embracing Imperfection in the Juggling Act of Life​