The Balancing Act- Engaging and thought-provoking conversation between FS and DS.

DS (Doubtful Shweta) is standing with two containers labeled "Work" and "Life," trying to balance them on a scale. She adds a bit more to the "Work" side, then to the "Life" side, looking frustrated.

FS (Fearless Shweta): (walking up) Hey DS, what’s going on here?

DS: (grumbling) Trying to balance these 5 kgs of work and 5 kgs of life. It’s impossible to keep it equal!

FS: (curious) Why do you think it needs to be equal?

DS: (rolling her eyes) Because that’s what balance means, right? Equal time for work and life. If I add more to work, I feel guilty about home, and if I add more to home, I feel like I’m slacking at work.

FS: (smirking) You’re making it sound like a see-saw. Life doesn’t work that way, DS.

DS: (defensive) Oh really? Then how do you explain your late nights at work and weekend classes? You’re always tipping towards work.

FS: (firmly) Look, some weeks demand more from work, and some weeks, home needs more attention. Last month, I focused on that big project, but I also took a few days off to spend quality time with family right after. It’s about finding what works in the moment.

DS: (challenging) But what about women who take a career break? They prioritize family over work. How’s that balanced?

FS: (nodding) Exactly. They’re not looking for a perfect split. They’re making a conscious choice to focus on family when it’s needed most. When they’re ready, they shift focus back to work. It’s a dynamic process.

DS: (thinking) So, you’re saying it’s about shifting focus based on priorities? But doesn’t that create chaos?

FS: (confident) It can if you don’t plan. For instance, my IIML classes and 2-hour sessions on Saturdays are part of my growth. I prepare in advance, so I don’t feel overwhelmed. During busy weeks, I communicate with my family and set aside specific times for them.

DS: (skeptical) Still sounds like a juggling act. And what about unexpected things? Like a sick child or an urgent work deadline?

FS: (acknowledging) That’s when flexibility comes in. Sometimes work takes the backseat for family emergencies, and sometimes family understands when work demands peak. It’s a give-and-take.

DS: (warming up) So, you’re saying it’s not about equal time but about prioritizing what’s important when it’s important?

FS: (smiling) Exactly. It’s about creating a flow that suits your needs at any given time. Think of it more like a symphony than a balance beam.

DS: (frustrated) But how do I stop obsessing over this scale?

FS: (gently) Start by putting the scale aside. It’s not about weighing work and life against each other. It’s about how they can coexist in harmony.

DS: (realizing) Ah, you mean it’s about work-life harmony, not just balance.

FS: (grinning) Bingo! Harmony allows for the ebb and flow of life’s demands. Some days, work sings louder, and some days, family takes the spotlight. Both can coexist without the constant struggle for equality.

DS: (smiling) I see what you mean. Maybe I’ve been too focused on the scale instead of the bigger picture.

FS: (patting DS on the back) Exactly. Let’s work on harmonizing our lives, one note at a time. And hey, how about that movie night this weekend?

DS: (laughing) Deal! Movie night it is. And this time, no work talk!

FS: (laughs) You got it! But can we plan it for Sunday instead?

DS: (smiling) Sunday works for me. Let’s make it a relaxing end to the week!

Cheers

Shweta Swarnkar

(FS +DS)

By Profession: I offer comprehensive HR as a Service (HRaaS) for corporates. With over 14 years of expertise, I help organizations optimize their HR functions and develop their workforce effectively.

By Passion: I provide personalized career coaching to help individuals navigate job searches and career transitions, with a special focus on empowering women to restart their careers.