Is it possible to “do it all” and not burn out? A five-year research project at the Women’s College Research Institute in Toronto is challenging the common assumption that it is harmful to take on many roles in life.
The research is showing that many women derive great satisfaction from
being actively involved in their communities, through work and family life,
voluntary service, friendships, and creative endeavours.
Although it is not easy and can even be exhausting, if women are satisfied with
their roles, they are observed to be healthier and feel more enriched.
Having
adequate support, however, does serve as a buffer to the possibility of becoming
overwhelmed; support, whatever form it takes, counters unhappiness and excessive
stress.
These findings concur with a traditional and philosophical approach to life: the
value of living with a “healthy tension.” Whatever our roles in life, when we
embrace our responsibilities and are actively involved in our communities, we
are more apt to fulfill our potentials.
When we truly participate in life,
rather than simply being a consumer or a spectator, we can experience the deep
satisfaction of a life of service, a life devoted to community – something
advocated by all spiritual traditions.
Considering that there will be times in life when our external supports weaken,
a classical philosophical education teaches us to build and rely on our own
inner support system.
The secret to doing more is being more! It is not a matter
of more time or money, but a matter of more inner cultivation: organization,
purpose, determination, enthusiasm, self-surpassing, and selflessness. If we
want to do more, let us be more!
