Find Your Balance
Have you ever noticed how some people light up when they have the freedom to explore ideas, while others thrive on clear Find Your Balance: How Ancient Wisdom Can Help You Thrive at Work and in Life
Have you ever noticed how some people light up when they’re free to explore ideas, while others thrive on structure and clear goals? Understanding what truly motivates you – and how you naturally respond to the world – can make everyday life feel smoother.
That’s where two seemingly different worlds meet: Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of mind–body balance, and modern psychology, which studies what drives our motivation and happiness.
Together, they offer a practical map for working, creating, and living in a way that feels both balanced and authentic.
The Three Ayurvedic Types (Made Simple)
In Ayurveda, we’re all a mix of three natural energies, or doshas:
- Vata – creative, quick, full of ideas
- Pitta – focused, driven, organised
- Kapha – calm, loyal, steady
Each has strengths and challenges.
At the same time, modern psychology tells us people thrive when three core needs are met:
- Autonomy – freedom to make your own choices
- Competence – feeling capable and skilled
- Relatedness – feeling connected and supported
When we combine these two systems, we gain insight into who we are – and what we need to feel balanced and fulfilled.
The Creative Explorer (Vata + Autonomy)
How you tick:
You’re full of inspiration and love variety. Freedom excites you. Routine, not so much.
When out of balance:
You might feel scattered, anxious, or overwhelmed by too many options.
Ways to rebalance:
- Add light structure to your creative flow
- Break ideas into small, clear steps
- Ground yourself daily – walk, journal, breathe
- Build habits that support focus without stifling freedom
Try this:
Choose one key task each morning. Do it before starting anything else.
The Driven Achiever (Pitta + Competence)
How you tick:
You’re goal-oriented, organised, and naturally take the lead. You like progress and challenges.
When out of balance:
You might overwork, feel irritable, or push yourself too hard.
Ways to rebalance:
- Set clear but realistic goals
- Celebrate progress, not just results
- Balance effort with calm — take real breaks
- Practice collaboration as a strength
Try this:
Before saying yes to a new task, ask:
“Will this grow me – or just drain me?”
The Steady Supporter (Kapha + Relatedness)
How you tick:
You’re calm, patient, and dependable. People feel safe around you. You value connection and stability.
When out of balance:
You might feel stuck, demotivated, or resistant to change.
Ways to rebalance:
- Invite small, positive changes – new ideas, spaces, people
- Move daily to keep energy flowing
- Stay connected to uplifting people
- Set light goals to maintain momentum
Try this:
Once a week, change something – your route, your routine, your playlist.
Why This Matters
Understanding your own energy and motivation style changes everything.
It shifts the focus from trying to “fix” yourself to working with your natural rhythm.
Balance isn’t about becoming someone else – it’s about supporting who you already are.
Quick Self-Check
- Which type do you relate to most: Creative Explorer, Driven Achiever, or Steady Supporter?
- What usually throws you off balance – chaos, pressure, or too much routine?
- What’s one small thing you could do this week to feel more centred?
Blending Ancient Insight with Modern Life
You don’t need to memorise Sanskrit or read psychology textbooks to apply this.
Just start small:
Notice what energises you.
Notice what drains you.
Notice what brings you back into balance.
That’s the power of combining ancient wisdom with modern insight – helping you live and work with more clarity, ease, and intention.