In today’s workforce, especially with post-pandemic work-from-home arrangements, there is an increased awareness of maintaining a healthy work/life balance. Some say, “Don’t work too much,” while others point out, “Put in your time, and it will pay off down the road.” Wherever you are on this spectrum of work mentalities, trying to create the optimum work/life balance can cause you to miss a related principle that is actually more important: Be present.

Jim Elliot said,

“Wherever you are, be all there.”

When you’re at work and you’re thinking about what you need to get done at home, you’re discounting doing your best on the clock. Conversely, if you’re at home with the family and you’re mulling over that deadline you have tomorrow, your kids and spouse notice. People can tell when you are distant or simply not present. It limits your interaction, creativity, and influence at that moment in time.

As you transition from home to work to church or to wherever, determine to be “all there.” Life is too short to miss spending time with those immediately around us. Put down the phone; turn around and listen; engage. You need it and they need it.

Boundaries are important, especially if you work a hybrid schedule, working part time at home and part time at the office. Draw those lines to allow yourself to be present where you are. If you need to step away, turn away and do what you need to do. Being half-in/half-out is an apathetic approach to balance, even if you do feel like the work/life balance is improving.

If you need a Bible verse, here is one to consider:

“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest.”

(Ecclesiastes 9:10)

Be present!