Finding Balance in Bali

By Janine Hall, an EO At Large – APAC member and founder of Escape Heaven

I remember attending a few Universities over the past few years, where we were encouraged to find and follow our “why.” For the longest time, I didn’t think much about why I did what I did. What led me to quit the corporate rate race five years ago and move to Bali to follow my dream? I knew no one, had little resources and channeled all of my energy into a health and wellness business. My goal was to help women recharge their physical, mental and emotional batteries in paradise. As I built my global business from the ground up, I pondered my true purpose.

As far back as I can remember I’ve had an inner yearning to make a greater impact on the lives of those around me. And while I found success as an entrepreneur, I sensed that I had more to offer. Launching my charity, Creating Futures Foundation, was a natural step for me. I started life as an orphan in New Zealand, and felt grateful for the opportunities afforded to me through education and travel. I’ve always felt an affinity with other orphaned children. Upon moving to Bali and visiting a number of orphanages, I was struck by how limited the access was to essential resources like education. Before I knew it, I had found my passion and purpose in life.

I felt compelled to give children the chance at a successful future. I learned that a staggering 80% of the orphans have parents that are simply too poor to care for them, so they are given away. I committed myself to raising awareness and funds to change their lives for the better, and reunite them with their families when possible. They say the more you give, the more you receive— this has certainly been the case with my experience. Giving back to Bali in a meaningful and measurable way has definitely given me a renewed sense of purpose and fulfillment in all areas of my life. It also reconfirmed my “why,” which is all about positively impacting others.

Seeing the next generation of children in Bali graduate with fluent English skills and high self-confidence levels is a great measure of success. While giving back is certainly rewarding, my passion for this cause also helps fuel my drive in other areas of my life. In fact, I am able to bring to my business and personal relationships the fire and enthusiasm I feel as a result of my charity work. The relationships I’ve formed with other volunteers have also been a true influence over my life and the way I conduct business. They serve as a great reminder to me of the nature of the human heart, and how inherently we want a better world and to be happy.

What’s more, my work with the foundation attracts likeminded people to my business, which further strengthens my client base. And while setting up a charity in a third-world country has been a steep learning curve for me, I learned that with commitment and the right people on board, positive change can happen quickly. We were able to couple a good cause and pure intention with selfless volunteers, and have seen a positive result in a short period of time. I take this lesson into my business. I don’t accept excuses, and I know that what we want to achieve is possible with perseverance and self-belief married with an understanding of my why.

I’m a big believer in karma— what you put out in the universe you will receive back. It’s empowering to see the synergy of what can happen when you have the right idea coupled with the right people. It has given me momentum in my business and life, and helped carry me through some of the darker times when I’ve hit a few rough patches. Looking back, this journey to find my purpose has been beneficial in business and beyond, and I’m thankful for the experience.

Janine Hall (pictured) is the founder of Escape Haven wellness resorts in Bali, Byron Bay, Noosa, Sri Lanka and Morocco. Through her charity, Creating Futures Foundation, Janine is decreasing the need for orphanages in Bali. Contact Janine at [email protected].