Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about balance, that elusive goal I continually strive for, but never quite seem to reach. And then, during a Google search the other day, I came across a picture of a Bongo Board, “The Fascinating Game of Balance.”

On a sticker, smack in the middle of the board, a seemingly simple challenge: “How Long Can You Stay Up?” Apparently, champions can endure the test for a minute or more. I understood completely. Because all too often, staying up — or, balanced — even for a minute, can feel anything but simple. (And, let’s face it, less than “Fascinating.”)

Balancing work life and personal life has always been a challenge for me. Some days, weeks, or even months, I tilt more to one side than the other, falling off the Bongo Board of real life less than gracefully. And, I’m losing my balance altogether.

But, I like to think I’m a work in progress. And progress takes practice.

So, last week, progress, I did. I turned on my “Out of Office” notification, shut down my laptop, and took a complete break from work as I focused on a personal passion of mine — running — and participated in the Cherry Blossom Double Blossom 5k and 10-mile races in Washington, D.C. It was just the escape I needed. My cousin Melanie joined me, and together, we had a wonderful time.

First, Cherry Blossom season is a sight to behold. With around 3,800 deciduous cherry trees blooming from late March to early April, the capital transforms into a picturesque canvas of pink. If you’ve never seen it, trust me, it’s worth the trip.

If you love to learn and sightsee, D.C. is for you. Standing outside the White House gates, exploring the Smithsonian museums, or simply strolling from the Washington Monument to the Capitol Building, filled me with a sense of awe and purpose. I had visited only once before, as a teenager, and seeing it through adult eyes offered a completely different experience.

But, of course, I came to run. And D.C. is the perfect city for it. The Cherry Blossom courses are flat, fast, and scenic. Whether you’re a runner, an aspiring runner, or a walker, consider adding the 5k, 10-miler, or the Double Blossom (or both!) to your bucket list.

As I ran, I stopped thinking about balance, and I started feeling it. Surrounded by nature, allowing my run to find its own rhythm, I felt the exhilaration of movement and joy with a dash of competitiveness thrown in. I was floating on top of that Bongo Board, in my sweet spot. And, although the getaway was brief, I felt restored.

I share this with you as a reminder to find the things — and the moments — that bring you joy. Lean in hard, especially when work is becoming all-consuming. Spend time doing things that light you up, and with people who make you happy. And, of course, value and respect the importance of personal time, as well as professional accomplishments, both for yourselves and for your teams. It’s crucial for our well-being.

And how amazing that I could insert three “special moments” into my brief time away: spending time with family, appreciating the beauty of a city, and running a race.

So now, I encourage you to seek out your own special moments. Stay inspired. Embrace your passions. Enjoy the everyday, as well as the remarkable.

But, cut yourself some slack if finding that elusive balance is a bit tricky at first.

Remember, we’re all works in progress.