CHASING ENOUGH

A self-help book that promises fulfillment and an end to burnout.

In a society fueled by the ever-present need for more, says author and entrepreneur Balak, it’s nearly impossible to know what’s enough. She calls this concept—this “belief that more will solve everything”—“chasing enough.” But according to the author, chasing enough is a perilous cycle that traps even the most successful people; the harder one works toward “enough,” the further one actually gets from it. In fact, “high achievers are running on fumes, mistaking exhaustion for excellence,” resulting in not only burnout, but self-abandonment. Balak compares one’s capacity to a container; everyone has finite space to hold the physical, emotional, mental, relational, and financial demands of a busy life. The book is built around 11 lessons that explore the toxic patterns that keep “high achievers stuck in the cycle of proving, performing, and perpetually moving the goal post.” Each chapter ends with a “Well-Resourced Checkpoint,” consisting of “reflection questions, exercises, and practices” to keep readers on track toward a life of fulfillment and joy. Mantras, prompts, challenges, and other ideas to stay balanced fill these pages, alongside real-life anecdotes from the life of a high-powered high achiever. Readers will learn about and practice strategies to surround themselves with a system of support, establish boundaries, say no, and make space for their true selves, among countless other tips and tricks to achieve balance and find joy in the enough. Balak writes with thoughtful and intentional purpose; each sentence is carefully crafted and integral to the process of achieving sustainable success. Her personal stories are powerful—and sometimes even shocking—yet still applicable to any high-achieving reader. The book is visually straightforward and easy to follow despite the vast quantity of information being presented. One particular area of Balak’s plan to “Get Real, Get Clear, Get Resourced, and Get Moving” may leave readers wanting more: The checkpoints at the end of each chapter, while helpful, are limited. Still, Balak offers an experienced and comprehensive map toward a life free from overwork.

A thoughtful guide that will aid high achievers in finding balance and will serve as a reminder that sometimes enough is enough.