Rediscovering Centre

My last blog entry spoke of feeling off balance; specifically, of feeling like a hamster running on a wheel, getting nowhere and feeling little sense of accomplishment.  This entry provides a happier tale: one of returning to a balanced place. 

So what is this elusive "balanced place" or "centre", and how does one get there? 

From my perspective, it is almost as simple to define as the label itself.  Simply put, it is that place where you feel most "yourself"; most evenly distributed among your various views and feelings about any given topic; most powerful and grounded.  I think you know what I'm talking about.  

The more difficult question is: How does one get there, and how does one stay there as much as possible?  This is the vexing question.  

I think the answer is found in many different places, and the path has many branches.  I think the central theme is that you need some kind of "practice" or habit of mind or body (or both) that brings you back there.  Maybe it's as simple as reviewing a mental checklist of what you are grateful for in your life, and allowing yourself to actually feel that gratitude in the moment.  Maybe it's a daily walk in the park, or some form of "me" time.  Perhaps it's a talk with a good friend, or a regular exercise routine.  

Whatever your vehicle, the goal is the same: finding that elusive sense of balance or centre. 

I am happy to say that, even though I have not yet gone on vacation, I think a few days ago I rediscovered that sense of centre and perspective.  How did I get there?  Some combination of items described above:

• I have a daily practice of personal time: reflection time; quiet time; time just for me.  I start each day that way, and it makes a big difference. 
• I got together with a dear friend late last week and spent a great evening of sharing, laughing, getting and giving advice, and just plain enjoying each other's company over a tasty meal. 
• I saw loved ones on the weekend and spent some uninterrupted time with my wife. 
• I participated in a celebration evening of milestones and accomplishments over recent months in one area of my business life;
• I checked in with my coach, getting her input on things.
• And, I put more of the finishing touches on my vacation planning.  This served to make it that much more "real", letting me feel like I'm almost there. 

There are other things, but the items above are the main components. 

Altogether, they served to create perspective.  A return to "centre".  And, dear reader, that is a very good feeling indeed.