Balancing life—in heels and a suit

“We need to hear the voice of nurse leaders talk about balance,” said my esteemed colleague. I agreed and set to task by reviewing the literature, exploring definitions, and reflecting on my past experiences. To write an article on balance between personal life and professional life appeared to be something I could accomplish with minimal to moderate effort. After all, I am the chief nursing officer (CNO) of a large major academic organization. My family life is busy with a husband and 2 children, one of those a preteen and the other in those glorious teenage years. I manage to do my fair share of carpooling, attend required school events, and even coach softball in the summer. Included on my weekly to-do list are exercise, church, and household chores.