Getting Back in the Saddle: Balancing Work and Life Through Major Life Events

Some Mondays are tougher than others. Today is one of those.

After attending two funerals this weekend—one for a beloved Air Force colleague who lost his battle with cancer and another for the son of a friend tragically killed in a car accident—I find myself drained, emotionally and physically. These weren’t just services; they were long journeys filled with heavy conversations, quiet moments, and the deep reflections that come with honoring lives lost. I returned late Saturday night with no real time to recharge before facing the demands of Monday morning. And yet, here I am.

If you’ve ever found yourself in a similar place—navigating loss, long commutes, and life’s toughest moments—you know how hard it can be to simply show up, let alone give your best effort at work. It’s a delicate balancing act: mourning and supporting loved ones while ensuring your professional responsibilities aren’t neglected.

But perseverance is key, even when the weight feels overwhelming. I want to share a few thoughts on how to navigate these tough times while still taking care of yourself and others.

1. Give Yourself Grace

It’s okay if you’re not operating at 100% right away. Major life events have a way of draining us—mentally, emotionally, and physically. Don’t beat yourself up if your focus isn’t where it normally is. Acknowledge what you’ve been through and extend yourself the same compassion you’d give a colleague in your shoes.

2. Communicate with Your Team

Let your colleagues or supervisor know you’re working through a tough time. You don’t have to share every detail, but being transparent can foster understanding and prevent unnecessary stress. Teams that support each other through life's ups and downs are the ones that thrive.

3. Prioritize Your Tasks

On days when your energy is limited, focus on the essentials. What absolutely must get done today? Let the rest wait if possible. This approach allows you to maintain momentum while also pacing yourself through the emotional aftermath of personal challenges.

4. Make Space for Personal Healing

It’s tempting to dive straight into work and ignore the emotional toll of what you’ve been through. But unprocessed grief has a way of catching up with us. Make time—whether it’s through journaling, quiet reflection, or a conversation with a trusted friend—to acknowledge your feelings.

5. Lean on Your Support System

This weekend reminded me of the importance of the people around us. Just as I witnessed the strength of military Honor Guards performing their duties with reverence, we need to lean on our own personal and professional networks. You don’t have to carry the weight alone.

Perseverance Isn’t Always Glamorous—But It’s Essential

Life doesn’t stop for funerals, long commutes, or personal heartaches. And that’s the challenge we all face: how to keep going when life feels heavy. Today, I’m choosing to get back in the saddle—not because it’s easy, but because it’s necessary.

For those of you navigating similar challenges, I see you. It’s okay to not have it all figured out. Just keep moving forward, one small step at a time. And remember: Hug your loved ones a little tighter. Life doesn’t come with guarantees, and we never know what tomorrow holds.

How do you balance work and personal life during major events? I’d love to hear your strategies and experiences.

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