Work-life balance (WLB) by definition is an individual’s ability to meet their work and family commitments, as well as other non-work responsibilities. However, this definition has a problem; we don’t often put mental health as a responsibility in our lives. Managing responsibilities is good practice for our lives, but leaving out our mental health can have dire consequences.

As the pandemic marches on, and our work and play remain restricted, Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, is likely darkening the outlook for some of us within the University of Iowa community.

The practice of self-reflection is our ability to “turn our attention inward to consider our own thoughts, memories, feelings, and actions.” (Philippi & Koenigs, 2014, p. 56) It is a productive evaluation of what is working in your life and what is not, what emotions you are experiencing, and what physical sensations you have in response to memories, thoughts, and emotions. Self-reflective practice uses an “observer stance,” through the use of curiosity and self-compassion, taking a non-judgmental perspective toward yourself.

Do you remember your first car? Your first kiss? Your first heartbreak? The first sense of accomplishment that you felt really proud of, like high school graduation? First job? Placing at state for a sport or program? Your first failure? The first time you didn’t feel like part of the group? These are all examples of how experiences prompt identity change.