Shepherding Insights

August arrives—a traditionally quieter season in ministry. It’s a time to pause, reflect, and create. We know what’s ahead: the BER months, bringing Harvest assemblies, Remembrance services, and the joyful whirlwind of Christmas – whilst trying to also hold on to the season of Advent. Before the pace quickens, this is our moment to restock, replenish, and refuel.

For years, we’ve been told that Work-Life Balance is the key to flourishing—as individuals and families. But lately, I have discovered that we need the Work-Life Integration model.

The balance model tends to create an “all or nothing” mindset, especially in busy seasons: I must focus only on work right now—there’s no space for family or rest. It’s often visualised as a seesaw—work on one side, life on the other. Tip too far and one side diminishes. But here’s the problem with seesaws: if both ends are weighed down, the middle can snap. And none of us can predict when life will tip unexpectedly—sometimes, all it takes is one phone call.

Work-Life Integration allows room for both—and removes the guilt. Ministry already receives my time in abundance: weekends, late nights, and the space it occupies in my thoughts. So, it’s vital my family gets time, too—and that I look after my own well-being. My two gym sessions a week are as important to my diary as leading a weekly service.

Yesterday at lunch, I claimed a longer pause. I whisked the 12-year-old off to a local National Trust property for fresh air and food. We reminisced about coming here when he was a toddler, and shared a couple of hours together, laughing and joking. When we returned, he disappeared into his room to chat with friends, and I returned to my study—recharged, focused, and more productive than I’d felt in days. In those four hours, I caught up on long-dormant tasks and drafted sermons all the way to 7th September.

Work-Life Integration doesn’t mean perfection—it means freedom. It releases guilt, strengthens relationships, and actually improves our ability to be present for both vocation and life. Ditch the see saw.

(c) The Reverend Laura Bushell Hawke 2025