The Balancing Act

Question: We have just found out that we will be having baby #3 in the Spring. This is one of those unexpected pleasant surprises. I just signed up to be a consultant back in May when your company ran that wonderful sign-up promotion, so I'm pretty new. Knowing that you have 4 children, my question is this: How do you balance your career with family life? --submitted by Casandra, August 29, 12:55 pm

Answer: Congratulations, Casandra! A baby is indeed a delightful surprise and a wonderful blessing. I'm often asked questions about family life and balance, and the answer is easy even though DOING IT can be difficult—and that is that the best must never be the victim of the good. Working is good, it's necessary, and it's fun. It's an important and good thing. But family is best; if we invest our efforts in those we love, our career and our lives will be successful. I absolutely believe that the most important work I could ever do is at home, and that when I prioritize the way the Lord would have me do it, that other priorities will fall into place.

I've also learned that sometimes there are seasons of imbalance—there are times that my children need me more than my business. It's during those times that I work to delegate, to defer, or to simplify so I can spend more time with family. At other seasons, work is very demanding, like during Convention preparations, and I put in the time to make work successful, knowing that I'll strive to rebalance as soon as possible.

Too, I've learned that family and work can be integrated happily. From the time my children were babies, I had a nursery attached to my office and studio. I can't tell you how many meetings I've attended juggling a toddler on my lap! Now that my two youngest daughters are teenagers, they work for the company. I can't tell you what a blessing and a delight it is to have them, along with David, at the office. We connect during break times or share a quick lunch together in the summer. I think that no matter what your pursuit, including running a successful Close To My Heart business, you can welcome your family into it—let them be a part of something "good" so that together you can be the "best" you can be!