Finding the Sweet Spot: Balance Between Structure and Flow
The Dance Between Structure and Flow
For much of my life, I resisted structure. It felt rigid, boxed in, and stifling to my free-spirited energy. I rebelled against it. But deep down, I began to notice something - my rebel heart might actually crave structure. Over time, I realized I thrive with the right amount of structure—enough to give me a sense of direction and clarity but with room to flow freely.
It took me years of trial and error to discover what worked best for me. I found that too much freedom can paralyze me—leading to guilt, lack of motivation, and feelings of overwhelm. On the other hand, too much structure steals my joy, stifles my creativity, and suppresses my spirit. But when I find that sweet spot of balance between both, it opens up a world of endless possibilities for me.
My Journey to Finding Balance
This balancing act has been a part of my process ever since I left corporate America. I initially pursued Pilates full-time, but burnt out. While trying to figure out my next steps, I walked dogs to help find clarity. That non-traditional shift led me to becoming a coach. Now, as I navigate the world of being a solo entrepreneur, I continue to meet this challenge of balancing structure and flow. It’s a dance I’ve had to refine, learning to honor the structure while giving myself the spaciousness to flow, grow, and heal.
Flow: What It Means to Me
Flow, to me, means freedom—ease, space, and connection to something bigger than myself. It’s the key to unlocking my creativity and inspired action. But, it wasn’t until a few years ago that I fully recognized my need for structure, and how it actually supports my nervous system.
Incorporating structure into my life gives me clarity, which supports my flow, and with the merge both I feel alive, awake, and grounded—a profound sense of peace and belonging that feels in perfect alignment with who I am.
Why Structure and Flow Matter
It may sound strange to connect peace and belonging to structure, but here’s what I’ve found: structure brings me home to myself while flow connects me to something greater. Together, they create a foundation for me to build my dreams, open doors for opportunities, and carve my own unique path. It’s not linear, but a beautiful wave that feels true to my energetic signature.
Some Tools for Navigating Structure and Flow
Flexibility is Key: I allow my routines to be flexible and accessible, but aligned with my values and needs.
List Making: Not a to-do list, but a simple list to organize my thoughts. I find joy in crossing things off, and it helps reduce mental clutter.
Me Time: I schedule time for self care—whether that’s through movement, walks, meditation, or simply a cup of tea—something that reconnects me to myself.
Accountability Check-ins: Daily (sometimes multiple times a day) I check in with myself—whether it’s through a body scan, naming my feelings, or a quick prayer to ask for guidance.
Trust: I trust the process. I trust that as I continue to work on balancing structure and flow, I will find my way. I don’t need anyone else to tell me what I should or shouldn’t do. I trust that I won’t get lost in the flow and that I am grounded in the present moment, always closing the gap from where I am now to where I desire to be.
You Are Not Alone
I know there are days when I struggle with structure, feel overwhelmed, or get stuck in the weeds. On those days, I practice deep acceptance and compassion for myself. This is all part of the process. With a toolbox full of mindfulness practices, I take a moment to pause, reflect, and ask myself, "What do I need right now?"
If you can relate to any of this, know that you’re not alone. We’re in this together. If you ever feel like sharing your story, wisdom, or challenges, I would love to hear from you.
A Quote to Reflect On
“We don’t have to do all of it alone. We were never meant to.” — Brene Brown
