The Power Of "AND" In Our Lives

In a recent coaching session with a client, we explored her values and what success looks like for her, not just at work but in her life.

One of her values is ‘balance’. I asked her, "What does that mean to you?" (Because words mean different things to different people).

She told me that, for her, the essence of balance is being okay with the "and." And she shared many examples.

After the session, I thought, “Wow, what if we all gave more space for the ‘AND’?”.

As we navigate through life, we often face situations that seem to demand a choice between one thing or another.

The power of "and" lies in its ability to create a sense of harmony and flexibility between two seemingly conflicting perspectives and choices.

It allows space for both.

For instance, instead of choosing between being scared OR confident, we can acknowledge our fear AND embrace our confidence, knowing that we can handle the situation.

By doing so, we recognize the complexity of our emotions and experiences, allowing us to approach challenges with a more well-rounded perspective.

It allows a balance – not that it must be equal – but to create room and space to flex along a continuum.

Such as . . .

Feeling anxious AND confident in your ability to handle a situation.

Needing alone time AND enjoy being with other people.

Wanting structure AND flexibility in your calendar.

Being a strategic AND a details person.

Wishing the best for someone AND not wanting to be around them.

Focusing on a plan AND open to unexpected opportunities.

Disciplined with a daily routine AND room for spontaneity.

Holding strong opinions AND open to different perspectives.

Excelling in your work AND personal life.

Being your best self AND a work in progress.

Feeling happy in life AND sad some days.

Grateful for everything AND aspire for more.

The list can go on and on.

The power of "and" is a simple yet profound idea that allows us to navigate the complexities of life with a more flexible approach.

It can take the pressure off. You can experience more ease and less conflict. It can help with your own sense of balance.

So, what is something in your life right now that you can get more comfortable with the “and”, not one or the other? What would that look and feel like for you?

What would you give more room for?

Embrace the “AND”.

All my best,

What Next?

You can sign up for Stacey's masterclass, The Confident "No" here.

Stacey L. Olson is a Leadership and Certified Positive Psychology Coach, has 15 years of corporate experience and has gone through her own transformational change from burning out to balanced in life while performing at a high level (both in her corporate career and own business). She works with professionals who want to work less, live more and be their best even with all the demands, high expectations and messiness of everyday life. Stacey is the founder of The Balanced Leader™ program and offers executive and leadership coaching, workshops, and speaking.