We are often told in many forums and areas of discourse that the key to a happy life is balance. Balance in which all things of value get equated on some unspoken and certainly ill-defined scale. But can it really be true? Is there really a magic potion of life balance? I don’t think so. In fact, I say that the burden of proof is on those who say it is so.
Life is not about balance. It is not about the kind of careful calculations of decisions making that such a goal would require. No. Life for all of us, including--and maybe especially for those who pursue this #multisportendurancesportadventureliveitbeyondthelimits lifestyle, is not about a perfect or near-perfect balance. Our lives are about managing life imbalances. And not just managing but embracing and rejoicing in those imbalances. The times of really enjoying the moments of great triumphs are found in the times of quiescence and reflections. Not balance but true equity.
There is no great balance like a strange teeter-totter of life that makes all things equal that can ever match the singular moment of triumph that though short-lived at the moment, may ring in the heart and mind of the victor for years to come. There is no balance there, only the most beautiful kind of imbalance.
It is in imbalance: recognized, accepted, embarrassed, and celebrated that any passion for excellence finds its true home.
Balance in the pursuit of excellence is a myth. The truth is so much better. It is honest. It leads to happiness and fulfillment. It says that greatness, whatever that is for you, is worth a bit of a teeter-totter that is slightly off balance.
As you pursue excellence, don’t settle for balance when greatness is within your reach. Be willing to go that next step and let imbalance find its own place within you and what you pursue.
Mark Turner (aka Coach MarkT) is a Houston, Texas Metro area based Coach who is a USA Triathlon Level II and Paratriathlon Certified Coach, IRONMAN University Certified Coach,VFS Certified Bike Fitter, and Mental Strengths Performance Coach. Coach MarkT absolutely loves coaching and helping athletes achieve their dreams. MarkT is also a US Veteran having served in the United States Marine Corps. He is a graduate of the University of Houston Honors College with a Bachelor of Science in Political Science. In addition to endurance sports, his interests include history, science fiction, and cooking. He can be reached at markt@teamMPI.com.