The question of a better balanced life — better with thanks, purpose and joy in it — can go somewhere good in minutes and still have more to do decades after that. Making some steps very practical consider allocating resources in a balanced way, only about 60% of my time should be spent on my immediate goals and needs. 20% should be spent on the goals and needs of others and about 20% should be spend on something fun without a reason beyond simply being human. With such a balance, aiming for something lasting beyond me would be somewhere between a 20% to 40% resourced goal. Any further and I begin burning myself out — neglecting that 60% and purpose becomes the enemy of a thankful or joyful life.

In some cases, some would rather die than take advice. But the following is not bad balance of doing good, staying at it and even benefiting indirectly from the work.

“Let each of you look not only to his own interests, but also to the interests of others.” — Bible, Philippians 2:4

“And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.” — Bible, Galations 6:9