Let’s Get Balanced
I'm sure you've heard how important it is to maintain balance in your life but does that sometimes feel easier said than done?
Well you are not alone! Between work, family, friends, social commitments, keeping up your house, your health, and hobbies (what are those?!)…life can feel overwhelming and anything but balanced.
In a world where everything is constantly moving and onto the next mentality it is hard to align our energy with being still, slowing down, and here's a shocking one for most of us…saying “no”! I know, I know..the dreaded NO word.
It doesn't have to be this way though! Like with most things in life, some intentional actions, persistence, and practice can shift the way you run your world and can lead you to a life full of balance.
Here are some ways to get to that beautiful place:
1. Setting Priorities
First things first! You need to know what is most important to you. Take an inventory of your calendar and the way you are currently spending your time. Do the things filling up your days feel good or do they leave you feeling drained? Are they a necessary part of your life or are there things that could be eliminated? Before you can implement the changes necessary, you have to have a real look at what you're working with.
2. Establish Boundaries
Once you have prioritized the things most important to you, it's time to establish boundaries around them and the time that is necessary to make them happen. Not only will these prevent outside obligations from hindering them, but boundaries will also help you create some accountability for you and make it harder to deviate from the things you want most long term.
3. Self Care
You can't fill others cups when yours is empty. I'm talking to you mama! Self care is so important in all aspects of life but when it comes to having balance it's mandatory. If you are running on empty, even if you are checking off all the boxes, you are not going to feel like you're in balanced harmony. Take time to give yourself some love and prioritize your physical and mental health. Take an exercise class you love, set aside some time for meditation, or sneak away for some spa time..whatever makes your mind slow and your soul rejuvenate.
4. Implement Time Management Strategies
There is only so much time in a day but here's the truth..the people living in balance have the same 24 hours in a day that you do! The difference lies in how those hours are being used. Find a tool that jives well with you and your life. Calendars and to do lists can help organize your life and provide efficiency.
5. Practice Saying NO
Here's the golden nugget of balance…stop overcommitting! When life throws something your way and you have to decide to take it or leave it, get in the habit of checking it against your priorities list from step one. If it's not in line with those things and it's not going to bring peace and/or value to your life in a positive way then girlfriend…JUST SAY NO! It can feel difficult, guilty, and intimidating if that word is not a common one in your daily vocab, but I promise the more you use it the easier and more freeing it will become!