If you are someone constantly trying to bring a work-life balance, and instead feel stuck, you should probably try the ‘pendulum lifestyle’. It’s more about acknowledging life’s natural ebb and flow, and empowering you to thrive amidst the swings.
The ‘pendulum lifestyle’ is a term coined by Jeffrey Michael Karp, professor of biomedical engineering at Harvard Medical School, and MIT. In his book, ‘LIT: Life Ignition Tools: Use Nature’s Playbook to Energize Your Brain, Spark Ideas, and Ignite Action,’ he suggests a powerful tool ‘pendulum lifestyle’.
Instead of seeking perfection, which is almost a myth, pendulum lifestyle encourages you to accept life’s inherent fluidity. This means, instead of chasing a perfect balance, one has to acknowledge that the experiences, emotions, and interactions are constantly changing. When we start to listen to our mind, body, and surroundings, we can adapt and grow naturally, one step at a time.
“It’s about recognizing the natural rhythm of life – the inevitable swing of the pendulum – from one side to the other – the contrasts – the extremes… And when we are in touch with that, it becomes about actively choosing your direction and taking that first step to intentionally move yourself towards it…no need to try and swing too far at once – just enough to feel something,” Jeff Karp says in one of an Instagram post.
Jeff Karp also emphasizes that fear is not the enemy, but something that helps us in our growth, “Fear often feels like the enemy, but it’s not—it’s a signal guiding us toward something important, something transformative for our growth. Life often swings like a pendulum between fear and possibility, and fear is simply one side of that arc. When we encounter it, it’s a sign that we’re on the edge of something new and uncharted.”
Speaking about the fight or flight response, he adds, “When that fight-or-flight mindset kicks in, it’s simply your survival brain doing its job, trying to keep you safe from perceived danger. Instead of pushing it away, acknowledge it with gratitude: Thank you for trying to protect me – I’ve got this. By recognizing this dynamic, you regain your center and shift into curiosity and courage. It’s in these moments, when the pendulum swings into discomfort, that we grow the most. Fear isn’t the stop sign we think it is; it’s an invitation to rise, explore, and discover the amazing possibilities waiting on the other side.”
How to implement this in your life?
- A full body and soul check up in the morning: Ask yourselves these questions. Are you feeling physically, emotionally, and mentally well? Are there facets that do not feel 100%?
- Make adjustments in your routine accordingly: Based on this take simple steps to move the pendulum in a positive direction. Its not about perfection, but progress.
- Compassion and curiosity: Understand that like a natural pendulum swing, you may also feel off-balance. Have
self-compassion and have a constructive approach in life, by asking yourself what positive changes could help find a balance.116504213 - Understand the pendulum swings: Recognize what’s working and what’s holding you back. The factors that have contributed to the imbalance, and what changes can be made.