A Dream, A Choice, or A Myth

Daily writing prompt

How do you balance work and home life?

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Hello dear friends,

I hope this blog finds you in a cheerful mood and a thoughtful spirit.

Today’s writing prompt left me scratching my head at first. “What does ‘having it all’ mean to you? Is it attainable?”

It’s one of those questions that seems simple on the surface but unravels into layers the more you reflect on it.

Is it about wealth, success, family, love, or something else? Is “having it all” even a real possibility—or just a carrot dangling forever out of reach?

Let me share my journey of thought with you.

The Mirage of “Having It All”

In a world that constantly bombards us with success stories, highlight reels, and perfectly filtered lives on social media, “having it all” seems to mean achieving everything—a dream job, a perfect home, an ideal partner, beautiful children, exotic vacations, physical fitness, inner peace, and let’s not forget, a fat bank account.

It sounds delightful… and also overwhelming.

For a long time, I, too, believed that “having it all” meant ticking off every box on life’s grand checklist. I worked hard in my banking career, raised a family, saved for the future, and chased every logical milestone.

But as I look back now in retirement—with a quiet cup of green tea and some art on my easel—I realize how dynamic this concept really is.

The Evolution of ‘Having It All’

In our 20s and 30s, “having it all” often equates to ambition—career growth, financial freedom, perhaps love and adventure.

In our 40s and 50s, it might shift toward stability, family, and security. And in the golden years—like the phase I now embrace—it often takes the shape of peace, health, purpose, and the joy of simple things.

What I’ve come to believe is this: Having it all is not a destination—it’s a feeling.

It’s that sense of contentment when you sit down to a meal with loved ones. It’s the spark of inspiration when you create something with your own hands.

It’s the moment of stillness when you’re walking by the sea or watching your grandchild laugh. That—my friends—is “having it all.”

Is It Attainable?

Yes, but not in the way the world sells it to us.

You see, we cannot possess everything at once. Life has seasons. When we pour energy into one area—say, our career—another area like leisure or health might get less attention.

That’s not failure; that’s balance in motion. To think we can control every aspect of life simultaneously is an illusion that only breeds dissatisfaction.

The key, I believe, is conscious choice. If I choose to live a creative life, write my poems, paint my world with colors of imagination, and stay connected with my dear ones—I may not be winning awards or making headlines, but I feel like I have it all.

How to Redefine “Having It All”

Let’s break free from society’s definition and craft our own meaning.

Here are a few thoughts:

• Have clarity on what matters most: Make your own list of priorities. For one person, “having it all” may mean living in a small town surrounded by nature. For another, it may be making a global impact. Both are valid.
  
• Practice gratitude: It shifts your focus from what’s missing to what’s already there. A grateful heart always feels more full.
  
• Embrace imperfection: Life is beautifully messy. You might not have a spotless house, but maybe you have a house full of love and laughter. Isn’t that more valuable?
  
• Live intentionally: When you consciously align your daily actions with your core values, you inch closer to that elusive “all.”

My Personal Version of ‘Having It All’

Now in my 60s, my version of “having it all” includes:

• Time to write poems and paint freely.
  
• The joy of seeing my granddaughter grow.
  
• Morning walks in nature and quiet cups of tea.
  
• Laughing with my life partner while dancing slowly in the living room.
  
• A sense of purpose that comes from blogging, connecting, and sharing stories with all of you.

Do I have it all? In my own definition—absolutely, yes.

And on days when things aren’t perfect, I remind myself: “You have what you need. You are where you’re meant to be. And that is more than enough.”

It is about meaning

Friends, “having it all” isn’t about more. It’s about meaning. It’s not about endless achievements—it’s about living with alignment and intention.

So yes, it’s attainable—but only when you define it on your terms and not by someone else’s scoreboard. Don’t chase it—create it. Slowly, mindfully, lovingly.

And when you feel like you already have it—pause and smile.

Because maybe, just maybe, you already do.

With warmth and wisdom,
Vijay Verma
www.retiredkalam.com

Categories: infotainment

Tags: #Life, #mental health, #poetry, dailyprompt, dailyprompt-1942, dailyprompt-1949, featured, writing