Bossy & Balanced Grid: Your work-life balance check in when things seem “off”.

Carla Erskin
1 day ago
4 min read

Updated: 1 day ago

All women need to have the Bossy & Balanced Grid on hand to check in with themselves every now and then.

Let me tell you how this grid came about.

I have recently become obsessed with a quadrant-style matrix. If you are familiar with the productivity-based Eisenhower matrix, then you know exactly what I am talking about.

Well, after I encountered a few more during my research, it got me to thinking, “What would a bossy and balanced grid look like?”

Like a whole four-quad system.

So you know, I had to head to the lab. I have been testing out The Bossy and Balanced Grid, and I think it could really help you get back to a calmer, more productive, balanced state. Here’s why this is important. Stress and burnout are dangerous spaces to live in. Stress and burnout from overworking can lead to health problems, relationship issues, poor work performance, and a host of other things.

I had to learn this lesson in a hospital bed. And I don’t want that

for you friend.

But the thing is, we can’t just burn it all down either. Because the other end of the spectrum is bleak and possibly just as unhealthy. What is on the other end? Glad you asked. Stagnation, the heavy weight of fulfillment, disappointment. Here, you can also see relationships suffer from a lack of effort.

That’s why we have to check in with ourselves from time to time.

I have to admit that this grid is pretty dope, but it’s just the first step. And it is a “newish” tool that I am using, so there may be a few “kinks” to work out. But, I can tell you that I am already seeing amazing positive effects on my life, stress levels, and mental health already.

Can we get a quick Amen for good mental health.

The sooner you can use the grid to assess where you are, the sooner you can implement any adjustments. So let’s get started.

The Bossy & Balanced Grid

Step 1: Set Up the Grid

Draw a simple cross to create four quadrants (like a big plus sign). Label the axes like this:

Horizontal Axis (X-axis) = Productivity
- Label the left end as 1 (low productivity) and the right end as 10 (high productivity)
Vertical Axis (Y-axis) = Balance
- Label the bottom as 1 (low balance) and the top as 10 (high balance)

Each quadrant now represents a combination of your productivity and balance levels.

Step 2: Rate Yourself

Think about where you currently stand in each area. Then, rate yourself from 1 to 10 for each:

Productivity: Are you focused, consistent, and making progress on your goals?
Balance: Are you taking care of yourself, setting boundaries, and feeling energized?

Write down both scores.

Step 3: Plot Your Scores

Take your scores and plot them on the grid:

Start by finding your Productivity score along the bottom (X-axis).
Then, move up to match your Balance score on the side (Y-axis).
Where those two points meet is your current quadrant.

Step 4: Understand Your Quadrant

Bottom Left – Hustling Hot Mess: Low Productivity, Low Balance
Bottom Right – Overworked Overachiever: High Productivity, Low Balance
Top Left – Relaxed Underachiever: Low Productivity, High Balance
Top Right – Balanced Boss: High Productivity, High Balance

This grid gives you a snapshot of where you are right now, not to judge, but to guide.

What Happens When You Use the Grid?

Using the Bossy & Balanced Grid is an opportunity to see yourself clearly, honestly, and without judgment.

Here’s what’s possible when you check in with the grid regularly:

You’ll stop guessing what’s wrong and name what’s off.
You’ll start catching burnout before it hits.
You’ll see your growth in real time (and that builds confidence).
You’ll know exactly what to tweak when your routines aren’t working.
You’ll move from chaos or coasting to clarity and control.

Your Turn: Create Your Own Grid

Draw it. Screenshot it. Sketch it on a napkin. However you do it, get honest with yourself and then share it with me!

📌 Tag @iamcarlaerskin and use the hashtag #BossyAndBalancedGrid so I can cheer you on!

Ready for Real Change?

If your results landed you in one of the “bad” quadrants (Hustling Hot Mess, Overworked Overachiever, or Relaxed Underachiever), don’t just sit there feeling stuck.

Let’s walk through it together.

Book a Balance Check-In call, and I’ll personally guide you through the grid and give you clear, actionable steps to move toward Balanced Boss territory.