When we hear the phrase energy balance, the technical definition usually comes to mind: the balance between energy intake (what we eat) and energy expenditure (what we burn).

It’s a scale — and tipping too far in either direction can impact everything from metabolism to mood.

After years of navigating work, motherhood, and life in general, I’ve learned that energy balance, simply being and feeling balanced, is about so much more than the technical scientific equation cited above.

It’s about how we show up in life. How we protect and replenish our energy — physically, emotionally, socially, and spiritually — so we can thrive instead of just push through.

Here are a few ways I think about balance in real life:

A recent interview with The Band of Sisters, a group of former PepsiCo executives and authors of the new book, You Should Smile More, brought into focus the power of reflection. When you give yourself time to think about the advice that you would give to your younger self, you may be surprised by the wisdom that is revealed … and the power that advice still has to illuminate your future.