You have to put your partner and family at the top of the list and there must be downtime - time for gardening, cooking time, book reading time.

Shirley Ballas’ quote highlights the importance of prioritizing family and partners, suggesting that they should always come first in one’s life. By stating, "You have to put your partner and family at the top of the list," she underscores the value of nurturing personal relationships and ensuring they are not overshadowed by external pressures or demands. This emphasis on family suggests that a fulfilling life is built on strong, supportive connections with loved ones.

Ballas also stresses the need for downtime, which she describes as essential for maintaining balance and well-being. She mentions specific activities such as gardening, cooking, and book reading as ways to unwind and reconnect with oneself. These activities are not just hobbies but serve as forms of self-care and restoration, helping to rejuvenate the mind and body after the hustle and bustle of daily life. For Ballas, these moments of quiet, focused activity are essential to maintaining both personal and professional harmony.

The quote reflects a broader philosophy that balance is key to a healthy life. By ensuring that time for relaxation and personal interests is included in the daily routine, one can avoid burnout and foster deeper, more meaningful connections with both family and oneself. Ballas suggests that life should be a mix of hard work, creativity, and nourishment, with a strong emphasis on slowing down and appreciating the simpler things.

The origin of this quote likely comes from Ballas’ own experiences as a professional dancer and mother, where she has had to manage both the demands of a high-profile career and the importance of her personal life. Her reflection on the necessity of downtime reveals her understanding of the importance of nurturing both her career and her personal well-being, making sure that neither is neglected.