Finding that Elusive Balance – Tim Smart

We all know that stereotype. The uni student who gets up at midday, spends all night finishing an assignment and seems to spend more time partying than in class. While I, and the majority of university students, can’t claim to enjoy such a laid-back lifestyle, the idea made me think about finding a balance in what we do.

I have been lucky enough to combine my university studies in commerce with a somewhat more practical education helping out the team here at JBS. Yet, contrary to many opinions regarding lazy uni students, this has resulted in a busy (by uni standards at least), finance-centred schedule.

That’s where soccer comes in. For the last three years I have been filling my winter weeknights and Saturday afternoons with training and games. While it would be something of a stretch to see this progress from just a hobby, every member of the club shares the hope of progressing up the leagues and enjoying the success of a table topping team. We have had an exciting season so far, and with just a handful of matches left, the senior team has a chance to achieve the club’s first ever promotion.

I enjoy my sports, especially soccer, and have woken up at all hours in the morning in the past to follow my team Arsenal, so the continued decision to keep playing is a relatively easy one.

Yet the real reason I choose to freeze on a cold, raining, winter Wednesday night out on an exposed oval is the change it gives to my schedule, the ability to step away from everyday activities and engage in a completely different discipline. It has enabled me to find something of a balance in an otherwise full schedule; the fact that it keeps me at a reasonable level of fitness is a bonus. There is a structure to it that ensures that nothing dominates my thoughts to the detriment of my wellbeing.

I hope to keep playing soccer for at least a little while longer, but I have no doubt that the understanding that I have gained regarding the balance it has brought will be something I try to continue, particularly with my graduation coming up soon and from it a more permanent move into the workforce.