I learned a new phrase today after reading an article on American Management Association (AMA) by Carol Kinsey Goman, Ph.D. That new phrase is counterbalancing activities.

Dr. Goman said, “People who thrive on organizational change have two things in common: They take good care of themselves and they have outside interests.”

In short, they have a life. I agree. She also states that change-adept individuals compensate for the demands and pressures of business by developing counterbalancing activities in other areas of their lives. The counterbalance may sound silly to others but as change-adept people, they know what works for them.

They also have sources of emotional support and sources of stability. Because of that they have fuller, richer lives that spills over to their professional lives. They become more effective at work and handle stress better.

The article resonated with me. In fact, I see it work in my own life especially the part on having outside interests. Mine includes reading both for leisure and business, photography, and blogging. My friends and colleagues have commented and often wonder how I manage to find time to indulge in those leisure activities. The activities are indeed time-consuming but they’re are also extremely satisfying and fulfilling.

After reading the article, I realized too that my family and friends are my sources of emotional support and stability. I’m full of gratitude and thankfulness for the richness of my life.