What is a well-balanced life?
A few different conversations in the last couple weeks have been about role-models, goals, what we strive for in life, and what's worth striving for. In my own exploration of why I don't really seem to have many famous role models, I think it has to do with my shifting definition of greatness. In order for a great life to be worth it, you have to also enjoy it. And you have to be a good person. How many great lives can you think of that fulfill those two requirements? Often a great life, with a great collection of genius work, is tortured. Often it comes at the expense of being an asshole. Those exceptions, and I'm sure there are some (please let me know which exceptions you know of in the comments), often aren't the greatest, or the most famous, or the most powerful. They are, perhaps, the happiest though. The most well-balanced. And, possibly to their family and friends, the greatest people to be around.
This all led me to the realization that the thing I really want is a well-balanced life. One where no passion or achievement comes at the expense of all the rest. One where people still say nice things about me behind my back. Because, after all, isn't it true that the most accurate things ever said about a person are the things said behind their backs? And, strangely, I think most people are aware of the kind of things people say behind their backs. Our backs have ears too.
Here's a short list of things I thought would be present in a truly well-balanced life. Please add, edit, or suggest the removal of any items that you want.
- Physically healthy, exercising regularly
- Enjoys good food and drink
- Has a job that they like, likes to work hard
- Lives in a city and neighborhood that they like
- Has a comfortable home
- Has a fulfilling social life
- Is generous and helpful when asked for a favor
- Gets along with their family
- Enjoys time alone
- Has a creative outlet or hobby that they enjoy
- Stays on top of current events
- Votes, and participates in their civic duties
- Is good with their finances
- Tips well
- Feels loved by the people who know them
- Is in love
- Takes vacations, travels
- Has a good sense of humor about themselves
- Is open to new ideas and activities
- Can read people and groups for their general mood
Some of these aren't absolutely required. If your family is abusive, it doesn't make sense that you'd have to get along with them, for example. Being in love is as much luck as balance. Etc. But you get the general idea. What edits would you make?