Finding Balance: It’s Not You, It’s the Society

In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to feel like we’re constantly falling short. Many of us are exhausted, trying to keep up with the ever-increasing demands of work, family, and life in general. It’s common to blame ourselves for not being “optimized” enough, thinking that if we just worked harder or pushed ourselves more, we could handle it all. But what if the problem isn’t with us?

Frank Forencich, a health and movement educator, offers a refreshing perspective. He suggests that it’s not humans who are flawed or weak, but rather that the pressures of modern society have become too demanding. The expectation to always be on, always be productive, and constantly improve ourselves is unrealistic and unhealthy.

Instead of striving to be perfect, we should focus on finding balance. It’s okay to recognize our limits and to prioritize rest and relaxation. Our bodies and minds are not machines; they need time to recover and rejuvenate. By accepting our need for balance, we can better navigate the demands of life without burning out.

So, the next time you feel overwhelmed or think you’re not doing enough, remember: it’s not about optimizing yourself to meet society’s impossible standards. It’s about finding the right balance and being okay with who you are, including your need for rest and relaxation.

Your well-being is worth more than any societal expectation.

Franc Forencich, perspective encourages a shift in focus from self-blame to finding a sustainable balance between societal expectations and our personal needs for rest, relaxation, and well-being.

Forencich suggests that instead of constantly striving for optimization, we should acknowledge our limits and cultivate practices that help us manage the intense pressures of contemporary life. His work encourages a more compassionate and balanced approach to health, where the goal is to harmonize with our environment rather than constantly push against it.

For more on Forencich’s views, you can explore his work on his website, Human Animal​ (solutions for the human animal)