In today’s fast-paced world, achieving balance in life often feels like an elusive goal. We find ourselves juggling multiple responsibilities—work, family, relationships, and personal growth—while constantly seeking a sense of stability. To explore this topic, we had an insightful conversation with Lina Jaramillo, General Manager for Perficient in Colombia, who shared her perspective on balance, emotional intelligence, and the power of clear communication.
Redefining Balance: It’s Not About Splitting Time Equally
One of the key takeaways from our conversation with Lina was her refreshing perspective on balance. She emphasized that balance is not about dedicating equal amounts of time to every aspect of life but rather investing the necessary time in each area when it matters the most. Instead of feeling overwhelmed when things seem out of sync, we should step back and reflect: What is truly happening right now? What needs my attention the most?
Sometimes, we fail to set clear expectations with others regarding what they can and cannot expect from us. Lina highlighted how openly communicating our priorities allows us to create a sense of harmony, even in chaotic situations. Whether it’s family, work, or personal well-being, being transparent with those around us can help ease stress and prevent misunderstandings.
Emotional Intelligence: The Key to Managing Priorities
A significant part of maintaining balance comes down to emotional intelligence—the ability to recognize, understand, and manage our emotions effectively. Lina pointed out that women, in particular, have a strong sense of foresight, which can be a powerful tool if used correctly. However, this same foresight can sometimes lead to unnecessary anxiety or overthinking. The key is to develop emotional intelligence to prevent emotions from becoming overwhelming obstacles.
Lina shared a deeply personal experience about supporting her family through a difficult time when her brother was ill. She found herself being the pillar for everyone around her. During this period, she realized the importance of setting clear expectations with her work, her partner, and even her son. Communicating openly about her priorities allowed her to navigate a challenging situation without feeling completely overwhelmed.
Her experience underscores a crucial lesson: balance isn’t static. There will be moments when work requires more attention and others when family must come first. The important thing is to acknowledge these shifts and communicate them effectively to those around us.
The Power of Clear Communication
One of the most striking points Lina made was the impact of clear and proactive communication. She shared an example from a book (possibly The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People) where a man faced a dilemma between prioritizing an important work project and celebrating his anniversary with his wife. The lesson? If both his employer and his wife had a clear understanding of his priorities beforehand, making that decision would have been much easier.
Lina emphasized that when we clearly define our priorities and communicate them to the people around us—whether at work or in personal relationships—it removes unnecessary stress. Instead of constantly feeling torn between obligations, we can stand firm in our decisions, knowing that those around us understand our commitments. This alignment creates trust, reduces guilt, and leads to a more harmonious life.
Developing Emotional Intelligence: A Lifelong Journey
Emotional intelligence is not something we are simply born with—it is a skill that we can develop through practice, education, and self-awareness. Lina pointed out that, unlike IQ, which remains relatively stable, emotional intelligence can be cultivated through deliberate effort.
This development requires:
- Self-awareness: Understanding our emotions and their triggers.
- Self-regulation: Managing our emotions effectively instead of letting them control us.
- Empathy: Recognizing and understanding the emotions of others.
- Communication: Expressing our needs and expectations clearly.
Lina also highlighted the importance of taking care of our physical and mental well-being as part of emotional intelligence. Getting enough sleep, exercising, and setting aside time for self-care are essential habits that contribute to a balanced life. Our bodies and minds are interconnected—when we neglect one, the other suffers as well.
Final Thoughts: Achieving Balance Through Awareness and Communication
Our conversation with Lina Jaramillo offered valuable insights into finding balance in a world that constantly demands our attention. The key takeaway? Balance is not about dividing our time equally but about investing our energy where it is needed most at any given moment. Through emotional intelligence, clear communication, and self-awareness, we can navigate life’s challenges with greater ease and confidence.
By defining our priorities, being transparent with those around us, and actively developing our emotional intelligence, we can create a more fulfilling and harmonious life. The journey to balance is ongoing, but with the right mindset and strategies, it is entirely achievable.
This insightful conversation with Lina Jaramillo was a Women in Tech LATAM initiative. We are dedicated to fostering a supportive community where women can connect, learn, and grow together.
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