“Balance is not something you find, it’s something you create.” – Jana Kingsford
Have you noticed that in times of transition, like when summer turns to fall, or winter turns to spring, you may begin to feel more off-balance? Do you find yourself saying or thinking, “There’s just not enough time in the day to do everything I need to do." Feeling overwhelmed and overworked, know you’re not alone. Perhaps you’re a parent working outside the home, or working virtually, and trying to take care of your kids now doing virtual schooling. Or you’re single who’s working hard on your career or business, but having a hard time developing a social life or even finding downtime for yourself. Whatever the situation, you like so many are feeling the pressure of living in today’s high speed, high pressure, and high stress world. You’re constantly bombarded with societal messages to hustle harder, get the bag, be the perfect mom, wife, husband, friend, at the end of the day it’s no wonder you’re exhausted and off balance.
There are so many things that we have to balance in our lives, work, family, money, health, relaxation, caring for others, and caring for ourselves, just to name a few. With so much on your plate to balance it should come to no surprise that many are seeking on how to create balance in your life. There are tons of books, blogs, and articles on how to find balance, but there’s no one size fits all solution. Finding balance is an ongoing journey. It is not a finite goal at the end of which you will have a peaceful, calm and meaningful life. Balance is a way of living. It is a process. Take the pressure off yourself to change and create balance in all areas of your life all at once. Nothing happens overnight, and that’s ok. Make small adjustments, and eventually these small habits will create big changes in your life. Not sure where to start? No worries, I’ve got you covered. Here are 6 ways to create balance in your life.
1. ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR OFF BALANCE
The first step in fixing anything not going right in your life, is to acknowledge that there are things out of balance. Take time to really examine your life, your state of mind, and how you’re feeling. Be honest with yourself and notice the areas of your life that are off balance.
2. DISCONNECT FROM IT ALL
Turn off your devices. Turn them all off. I know you have been conditioned to have your phone attached to your hip. Heck some of you even sleep with your phone, but try and disconnect for at least for one day or even a few hours each night. Turn off the computer, TV, and phone. Give your work brain a much needed rest.
3. LEARN TO SAY "NO"
If your life is overflowing you will never be able to achieve balance and manage it all. It’s just not possible. Say no to everything that is either not essential, or doesn’t add something valuable to your life. When you say no to something non-essential, you're saying yes to yourself, and your peace of mind.
4. ELIMINATE THE NEGATIVE
Eliminate the negative influences around you. Avoid and cut out negative people (complainers, whiners, gossips, poor attitudes.) If you can’t completely avoid them, try to minimize contact and protect your energy. Surround yourself with positive, supportive, can-do people whenever possible.
5. MOVE YOUR BODY
If you feel out of balance, I guarantee your health is out of balance. Your physical health is a crucial component of feeling balanced in other areas of your life. Move your body, even 30 minutes a few times a week can help you feel so much better. Your health affects the quality of your life. We are far more productive and happier when you fit in some type of activity.
For anyone feeling overwhelmed and overworked, making time for yourself may seem like the hardest thing to do. Spending time alone is crucial for lowering stress, increasing happiness and encouraging creativity. Take a walk outside, meditate, read, color, or even take a nap (rest is productive).