⚖️ The False Hope of Balance While You’re Building Something Big

We’re often told that “balance is the key.” That we should step away, rest, breathe, spend more time in nature — and of course, those things matter deeply. But here’s the truth that doesn’t get said enough: sometimes balance isn’t possible when you’re in the building phase.

Sometimes, you have to be wildly out of balance for a season in order to create a life that allows for true balance later.

I’ve felt the guilt that comes with it — the guilt of saying no to family because there’s a deadline looming, the guilt of ordering takeout (again) because there’s just no time to cook, the guilt of surviving on caffeine and two hours of sleep because your dream keeps whispering, “Don’t stop now.”

But what if that’s okay?

What if this is what balance looks like right now — the balance between doing what’s necessary today so you can be present tomorrow?

If you feel that fire inside you, that urgency that says “I have to make this happen now,” — trust it. You’re not lazy, you’re not broken, and you’re not wrong for needing to work harder than others might understand.

This isn’t about glorifying burnout — it’s about recognizing the reality that some seasons demand sacrifice. And when you make peace with that, when you stop feeling guilty for doing what’s required, you gain clarity and purpose that will carry you through the hard days.

So, if you’re drinking energy drinks and living on determination — it’s okay.

If you’re working late while others rest — it’s okay.

If you’re saying “not right now” to family because you’re building something that will serve them later — it’s okay.

Just promise yourself that when the season changes, you’ll rest as hard as you’ve worked.

Because this is temporary. But what you’re building? That’s forever.

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