The Beautiful Mess of Balancing Business and Holistic Living

I’m reaching out to you, my vibrant community, from a place that feels like the eye of a storm. Yet, interestingly, it has become a wonderfully basic storm.

When I decided to launch a business to help others embrace their most holistic lives—through wholesome eating, mindful movement, and soul-nurturing practices—I imagined a serene, centered version of myself, gliding effortlessly through my days. I envisioned green smoothies, peaceful meditation, and deep conversations with my kids.

The reality? It’s been an exhilarating adventure, but not in the 'climbing Mount Everest' way. It’s more of a 'did I really just have coffee for breakfast again?' experience. It’s the daily rush: dashing to meetings, hastily assembling lunch (which often means whatever is quickest), and juggling an endless to-do list.

The irony is palpable. Here I am, a coach, a guide, a cheerleader for intentional living, and I often find myself struggling to follow my own advice.

Learning in Action: The Beautiful Contradiction

What I’m beginning to understand is that this phase isn’t about achieving perfection; it’s about learning in action. Each time I skip a mindful breath or reach for a convenience meal, it turns into a real-life example of what doesn't work. And that experience holds value.

I advocate for presence, especially with our children. Yet, I catch myself halfway listening while my mind races through emails and tasks. The hardest truth is realizing I’m not as present as I wish to be. And you know what? That’s okay. Acknowledgment is the vital first step toward change.

This ongoing journey becomes an insightful test of my holistic principles. My business challenges me to examine my habits, boundaries, and dedication to well-being—not just for my clients, but for myself. It may be messy, but it’s authentic, and realness is the basis of genuine growth.

Embracing the Chaos

Amid this whirlwind, I’ve learned to embrace the chaos. It’s easy to believe we should have everything figured out, but life is naturally unpredictable.

Instead of striving for a perfectly curated life, I now appreciate the beauty in the mess. Moments when my kids interrupt my work calls or when I have to whip together dinner from whatever is in the fridge bring me back to what truly matters.

These experiences teach me resilience and adaptability. They redefine my understanding of holistic living—not just as a theory but as a real-life practice.

Setting Realistic Expectations

One significant lesson I’ve internalized is the power of setting realistic expectations. As someone promoting holistic living, it’s tempting to feel I should always be at my best.

However, I’ve learned it’s also okay to have off days. For instance, I realize it is unrealistic to expect to enjoy a perfectly healthy meal every day. What counts is the overall journey and our consistent, small choices along the way.

By granting myself the grace to be imperfect, I find I can show up more genuinely for my clients and family. This shift has been liberating and serves as a reminder that we are all human, each navigating our unique paths.

The Power of Community

Another vital component of this journey has been the power of community. Sharing my struggles and successes has not only provided support but also fostered deeper connections.

Opening up about our challenges allows others to do the same. Vulnerability can ignite profound conversations and shared experiences that enhance our lives.

For example, a friend who understands the pressures of parenting or a fellow entrepreneur who knows the ups and downs of running a business can make a world of difference in how we cope with our chaos.

Mindfulness in the Midst of Madness

In the storm of activities, I’ve realized how essential mindfulness is. It’s easy to become overwhelmed by life’s busyness, but taking even a brief moment to pause and breathe can bring about transformative clarity.

Integrating small mindfulness practices, like a few minutes of deep breathing, a short walk, or savoring a cup of tea, keeps me grounded. These moments of presence shift my perspective and align me back with my core values.

Mindfulness doesn’t have to involve lengthy sessions; it can be as simple as staying fully present in whatever I do. This practice helps me reconnect with my intentions and values, even in the chaos.

The Journey Ahead

As I navigate this messy adventure of building a life and a business, I’m learning to embrace my imperfections and celebrate my small victories.

This journey isn't about attaining a flawless life; it’s about growing, learning, and evolving. It reminds me that I’m not a robot but a real person with dreams, aspirations, and some days that might involve coffee for breakfast.

So, to my beautiful community, let’s keep supporting each other in this intricate mess of life. Let’s share our stories, struggles, and victories. Together, we can cultivate a space where authenticity thrives and we can all learn to live our best, most holistic lives—one beautifully messy day at a time.

A peaceful outdoor space for reflection