By Sarah Wilson

I’m just going to come out and say it: the idea of perfect work/life balance is a myth. A unicorn. A Pinterest-worthy illusion that doesn’t actually exist in the wild.

And yet so many women, especially entrepreneurs, feel like they’re failing if they haven’t cracked the code on a perfectly balanced life. Like we’re supposed to be giving equal energy to work, family, health, marriage, friendships, and self-care all at once.

All the time.

With a smile.

And matching loungewear.

Can we rewrite this script, please?

Here’s the truth: life doesn’t operate in perfect balance. It moves in seasons.

There are seasons when your business needs more from you. Maybe you’re launching something new, working toward a big goal, or just finally feeling that elusive creative spark again. And yes, other parts of your life may have to take a backseat for a minute. (No, this doesn’t make you a bad mom, partner, or friend.)

There are also seasons when your family needs more. When your kid is struggling in school, or a parent needs care, or you simply realize that it’s been way too long since you were present for a Saturday afternoon park adventure without your phone in hand. In those moments, your business might go into maintenance mode.

That’s okay too.

Sometimes your body raises its hand and says, Hey, remember me? and suddenly you’re focusing on sleep, movement, and nourishment in a way you haven’t in months. (Cue the renewed interest in smoothies and activewear for something other than camera-off Zoom meetings.)

And sometimes, you just need to rest. Not because you’ve “earned it” but because you’re human. You don’t have to hit a productivity quota to deserve a break.

Balance isn’t about equal weight—it’s about intentional shifts.

Think of it like a symphony. Not every instrument plays at the same volume all the time. Some fade into the background while others crescendo. But when each section has its moment, and you give each one care and attention when it’s needed most, that’s when your life starts to feel aligned.

That’s when you stop feeling like you’re failing and start recognizing that you’re actually doing something incredible: running a business, raising humans, building a life. And doing it all with heart, grit, and intentionality.

So what should we aim for instead of balance?

✨ Flexibility. Knowing when to shift your energy and being okay with the ebb and flow.

✨ Boundaries. Not every “yes” is worth your time, and not every opportunity needs to be seized today.

✨ Compassion. For yourself, especially on the days when everything feels a little (or a lot) messy.

✨ Intentionality. You can’t give every part of your life 100%, but you can give what you have on purpose.

You’re not meant to be in perfect balance. You’re meant to be in motion. Responsive, intuitive, wise.

And yes, a little chaotic at times. 

But with really good snacks and a solid to-do list.

So here’s your permission to let go of the fantasy and embrace the season you’re in. You’re doing better than you think.