Balance is about the tune you choose to play.

Life, as the Stoics teach us, is about finding harmony—balancing reason and emotion and practicing moderation in all things. They believed that extremes, whether too much or too little, disturb the peace of the soul. A balanced life brings contentment and strength, no matter what challenges we face.

Keith Richards, in his entertaining memoir Life from the Rolling Stones legend, often shares humorous and unexpected insights about living life to the fullest, unapologetically. He suggests that the key to life is recognising whether you’re still humming a tune as you go.

He turns even the strangest ideas into lessons about enjoying life your own way.

For keith, rituals like this were anchors amid the chaos of touring, offering a moment of comfort and readiness in an unpredictable world.

He once revealed that he prefers to fall asleep holding his guitar because “you never know when inspiration might strike.” I guess it’s his way to stay prepared for life’s unexpected bursts. This is, after all, how the legendary riff for “I Can’t Get No Satisfaction” was born.

Take David Solomon, CEO of Goldman Sachs, whose passion for DJing brought him both acclaim and criticism. Here’s a man leading one of the world’s most high-pressure firms while spinning tracks at Tomorrowland, Lollapalooza, and even his daughter’s wedding. But when the media buzz became too loud, he stepped back—not from the music, but from the limelight. His decision wasn’t about giving up what he loved; it was about recalibrating his balance.

It’s inspiring to see someone like Solomon embrace something so unconventional for Wall Street. While the financial world traditionally leans on golf, poker, triathlon as hobbies, Solomon chose to put himself out there in a way that highlighted his humanity. Critics may have questioned his priorities, but isn’t the real win in knowing when you’re in harmony with yourself?

He has pursued a DJing hobby under the name “DJ D-Sol.” He founded Payback Records in December 2018. All profits to charities that treat, prevent and educate on opioid addiction.

If I were a journalist, I’d write a piece not on his detractors, but on how Solomon’s passion for music makes him one of the most interesting figures in finance – a leader with a creative edge and a refreshing, human side. What a cool guy.

Balance isn’t about perfect symmetry. It’s about making sure we’re still humming, still moving, and still inspired – wherever you are.

For you, what brings you balance?

Beijos,

Babi

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