A Conspiracy of Optimism

Here is my next drop-in post. It is from the blog KennyTheMonk.   This post reminds me that there are endless definitions and perceptions of life balance, that life is about making choices, that we can’t do everything during the short time we have on Earth, and that the ability to stop and be still on a regular basis is a treasured key to a conscious life. One of my favorite places to be still is in my husband’s authenic Brazilian hammock. Here is a clip of Kenny’s wise words. You’ll notice he states “Stop trying to achieve balance” which at first may seem like a contradiction to the essence of this blog. But I think you will quickly discover we are both encouraging the same truth but just from two different directions.


“We’re not going to be around forever, and we’re not able to have it all.  Acknowledging this will generate more than ample disappointment and regret. And we’ll pay a price for it: Guilt. But don’t be dismayed. Guilt doesn’t necessarily mean that we’ve done something wrong. It’s more an indication that we have said “no” to some larger authority: parent, teacher, boss. Guilt’s an indication that we’ve chosen to live our own lives and not someone else’s. Stop trying to achieve balance and start learning to enjoy chaos. Discovering and relishing one’s imperfect life sooner rather than later is what’s available. Oliver Wendell Holmes said that most of us go to our graves with our music still inside. So, forget about work-life balance and let go of the need to please everybody. Rather, get out there and make some choices and let your music resonate.

The guilt won’t kill you and you’ll do just fine if some folks don’t like you. And you certainly don’t need to have it all. For as Steven Wright reminds us: even if you did, where would you put it…..” Read More

By Stacey Hoffer

Stacey Hoffer is an ICF-certified mental health and emotional wellness coach, ancient feminine wisdom mentor, and upcoming author, who is powerful guide for cultivating deep inner peace. With a client list that includes Fortune 500 companies, the NFL, and women from all over the world, Stacey seamlessly blends evidence-based practices with ancient wisdom to deliver unparalleled transformations. Known for her comforting approach, Stacey helps her clients navigate life’s inevitable challenges while reconnecting to their inner strength and calm. Her work goes beyond surface solutions — she offers practical tools and soul-deep insights that empower individuals to live in alignment with their authentic selves. Stacey’s passion lies in guiding her clients back to their truest selves. Her message is clear: inner peace isn’t just attainable — it’s the foundation for a more joyful, empowered life. And it's a conscious, intentional, life long practice. Stacey believes If every person on this planet embodied self love and inner peace, we could achieve world peace.