Soft Life vs Hard Grind – How to Have Both

Lately, I started feeling unusually tired, not just physically, but emotionally drained too. At first, I blamed the usual culprits: work stress, the hustle, the endless to-do lists, etc. But deep down, I knew something was off.That wasn’t me. I have always embraced the “soft girl”in me. I know how to handle pressure, but I also know when to pause, unplug, and romanticize life in small, meaningful ways.

For me, that often means curling up in bed after a long shower, indulging in my skincare routine, munching something chocolaty and sipping something sweet, while watching a good movie or flipping through a self-helpbook. Sometimes it means taking myself out on solo dates. But somewhere along the way, I abandoned those rituals. I threw myself into non-stop grinding - and it wore me out.

I had not watched any movie in weeks.​

One evening, after journaling my thoughts, it hit me: I’d completely sidelined the little things that made me feel like myself. So, I took a long shower, turned off the lights, and played Everybody Hates Chris to unwind. I didn’t even finish the episode as I fell asleep in midstream. But when I woke up, I felt lighter. Recharged.

That night, I made a new plan: next up, snacks and a good book. My soft life comeback had begun.

That moment made me realize something important: you do not have to choose between the soft life and the hard grind - you can actually have both.

While the “soft life” movement is centered on ease, self-care, and intentional living, it is not a call to laziness, but a reminder that success does not have to come at the expense of your well-being.

Though globally known for his intense work ethic, World’s richest man, Elon Musk still makes time for family and hobbies. Oprah Winfrey, a great role model of mine built a global empire while actively prioritizing self-care and mindfulness. Clearly, ambition and balance can coexist.

 

Here are six ways to blend the soft life with the hard grind:

 

1. Prioritize Self-Care Like It’s a Deadline - Rest, exercise, and nourishing food are not luxuries, they are essentials. Schedule them like meetings. Your body and mind will thank you.

 

2. Set Clear Boundaries

Say no to things that drain you or don't align with your goals. Boundaries protect your time, energy, and peace. Guard them fiercely - your success depends on it.

 

3. Practice Gratitude Daily

Take a moment each day to reflect on what you're thankful for. Since I started doing this, my life changed. It grounds you, keeps anxiety in check, and helps you see progress, not just problems.

 

4. Embrace Imperfection

Everything does not have to be flawless. Aim for progress, not perfection. Learn to enjoy the process, not just the outcome.

 

5. Create a Sustainable Work-Life Rhythm

Whether it’s logging off at a certain hour or dedicating weekends to rest, find a flow that lets you thrive both professionally and personally. My brothers are great at this - they know when to pause and recharge.

 

6. Pursue Joy, Not Just Goals

Don’t wait for vacations to unwind. Paint, dance, read, sing, sleep, whatever helps you breathe again. Hobbies aren’t luxuries; they are a lifeline.

 

Finding that balance between the soft life and the hard grind is not a one-time fix, it’s something you keep adjusting, just like tuning an instrument. Some days you’ll lean more into the hustle, and that’s okay. But don’t forget to check in with yourself. Run that bath. Watch that feel-good series. Sip the drink. Eat the snack. Let joy exist alongside ambition.

Life isn’t just about getting things done—it’s about feeling good while doing them.

So, here’s your reminder: rest isn’t a reward. It’s part of the plan.

Keep glowing and grinding—in that order.

 

In the comments, tell us how you balance your grind and soft life!

 

 

...Sweet Lilian