Finding Balance: How to Shift from Doing to Being
Life often feels like a never-ending to-do list, doesn’t it? From work demands to family responsibilities, we’re constantly doing—but how often do we just be?
In this week’s Women, Work, Wellbeing podcast, I, Zoe explore the importance of finding balance in life and work between doing and being, why society rewards busyness over presence, and how small shifts can help you feel more grounded and in control.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, stretched too thin, or just a little out of sync, this episode is for you.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
✅ What is ‘doing’ vs ‘being’? – Doing is all the tasks we tick off. Being is about presence—pausing, listening, and just existing in the moment.
✅ We are rewarded for doing, not resting – Society praises busy schedules, but this constant grind can lead to burnout, stress, and emotional disconnection.
✅ Mindfulness isn’t about sitting cross-legged for hours – It can be as simple as taking a few minutes before starting work to breathe, pause, and be present.
✅ Your nervous system will tell you when you’re out of balance – Feeling overwhelmed, struggling to sleep, or always thinking about the next thing? It’s a sign you need more being.
✅ Small shifts can make a big difference – Turning off notifications, taking a mindful walk without headphones, or setting boundaries around work can help restore balance.
💡 “Balance isn’t about doing less. It’s about being more.”
Practical Steps to Find More Balance in Your Life
💡 Start with Awareness – Notice how much of your day is spent doing versus being. When was the last time you sat in silence without scrolling, planning, or checking emails?
💡 Set Clear Boundaries – Define when your workday ends, when your phone goes off, and when you make time for yourself. Stick to it.
💡 Incorporate Mindfulness – Whether it’s a short morning pause, a tech-free meal, or a few deep breaths before tackling your inbox, every little bit helps.
💡 Reflect Daily – Keep a gratitude journal, ask yourself what felt good today, and adjust where needed. Balance is an ongoing process.
💡 Let Go of the Guilt – Resting isn’t laziness. Slowing down isn’t failure. You deserve to be present in your own life.
If you take one thing from this episode, let it be this: Balance is not about perfection. It’s about intention.
Time Key:
- 0:00:01 – Introduction to the topic of finding balance in life
- 0:02:58 – Explanation of the difference between “doing” and “being”
- 0:07:44 – Why finding balance is important
- 0:10:16 – Signs that someone may be out of balance
- 0:13:15 – Tips for setting boundaries and incorporating mindfulness
- 0:16:30 – The power of reflection and gratitude
- 0:19:00 – Practical tips for finding balance
🎧 Finding Balance in Life and Work – Listen to the Full Episode Here
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