Have you ever noticed that just when you think you've got things “sussed”, something – or someone – comes along to prove you wrong? Similarly, have you noticed that there are no “right answers”. That success, well-being and peace of mind all seem to stem from one's ability to manage life's paradoxes. And that life's full of them!

Relaxation. Balance. Even-temperedness. Level-headedness. These fundamental states so many of us aspire to achieve all imply a certain stillness or stability…even inertia Yet, I've come to realize that they are, in effect, the result of considerable activity…and at all levels – the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual. Boy, no wonder it's such hard work – and the few successes we experience are so satisfying!

I'm reminded of the image of someone standing astride a balanced see-saw or teeter-totter. If we look at the upper part of the body, it is still – composed yet obviously ready for action. If we watch the legs and feet they are moving alternatively, responding to the “demands of the opposing forces”. There's a dynamic tension.

I needed this reminder the other day, when, faced with a massive “to-do” list, I began with considerable determination to plough my way systematically through the tasks. Mistake! All too soon – and almost too late – I realized that situations had changed. What had been a priority, no longer was. All sense of progress was shot. Momentum lost. Further, I realized that there was simply no way I was going to complete my “to-dos”.

It was then I thought of the see-saw….and realized two things. First, I needed to regain my balance - and to be quick about it! Second, that balancing is a continuous process. And, at that moment I needed to contemplate my “not to do's” . . . those activities, tasks, and - dare I say it - behaviours which were getting in the way of that day's “success”.

How often do we become so focused, so single-minded about an objective that we lose sight of the bigger picture, desired results and current realities? How often do we not even consider those things we need not, even should not, be doing? How often do we forget to continuously asses our priorities?

For my part, it's more often than I'd like – how about you?