This workshop is inspired by an article written by social justice advocate Stacey Abrams. She reflects on what it takes to fit in all the pieces of our lives without feeling like we’ll topple over from the effort of trying to balance everything. Abrams “rejects” the idea of work-life balance. Balance is impossible! ​Consider how every day something may happen to upset your carefully balanced plan. It might be your child coming down with the flu or an unexpected opportunity to expand your role at work. ​Abrams believes instead, on discovering what matters most to you, and then creating a plan that aligns with your priorities.

In this hands-on workshop, you will have the chance to reflect on how you are spending your time, to notice what you are making time for, and what is left out. ​We will provide you time for solo-reflection to consider what you’d like more of in your life–whether it is more time to invest in your personal relationships, professional development, health, or self-care. ​You will then move into small group discussions, led by professional facilitators, where you can share ideas on how to make your lives less stressful and more meaningful. You will leave with a better sense of the steps you can take tomorrow to design a life that aligns with what is most important to you.

The goal is for you to leave with a renewed sense of energy and excitement about realistic ways you can design a life that is more fulfilling, and less stressful. The event will provide you the tools to help you make the decisions that work best for you. The answers are not the same for each of us. We generally don’t make the time to ask ourselves these questions. This workshop will be a great way to start your year! ​Consider it a gift of time for yourself, where you can also support other members of the WEST community, to help them bring more delight into their lives as well.