The last few months, or the first half of 2019 I should really say, has truly been a whirlwind! I feel like I’m always talking about how busy life is, but it has really been on a whole new level on in these past 6 months. If before I thought I had life balance, I was wrong! And that is because in two major areas of my life, I have gone to new levels. I got married in May and second, I got promoted at my corporate job. Wh-hoo!
I am extremely blessed in so many ways, but I’m also just a regular person who like you who does not have the bandwidth (major consulting term lol) to execute every single area of life flawlessly. So just like you, I struggle with life balance! In the last few months, I have also had the opportunity to slow down a bit and learn more about myself, and my personal goals.
I want to share a few tips with you, in the hopes that it may also help you if you’re feeling disappointed in yourself for not meeting the crazy unrealistic expectations that you place on yourself.
You need to take care of yourself (You can’t pour from an empty cup)
I know we’ve all heard this phrase but it is so true! You have to take the time for a little bit of self-care in whatever form that may be. If you have been running yourself in the ground being super productive take an hour off and watch your favorite show.
You need everything in moderation. Some of my favorite things to do include catching up on a few youtube videos, watching Netflix, reading or getting my nails done. Sometimes your brain needs a break from having to think critically or from having to make decisions (even though choosing a nail color is always a tough decision lol).
You can’t be Everything to Everyone
I hate to break it to you, but you’re going to have to disappoint some people. Every time your friends invite you to brunch or Happy Hour you don’t have to go. They will be just fine. You also aren’t responsible for fixing other people’s lives. You can’t let everyone use all of your emotional energy either. If you’re too busy catering to everyone else’s needs/desires you definitely aren’t taking care of yourself how you should be.
You need to establish your priorities to have life balance
When you establish your priorities it is a lot easier to say no to everything that does not align with those priorities.
Or even just a “not right now” is better than saying yes to something that will take your attention and focus off of your priorities. You have to make it super clear as to why you are doing the things you’re doing otherwise it can be easy to start taking on more than what is needed.
Define your Boundaries
People that really care about you will respect your establish boundaries. Especially if they understand that you have goals that you are trying to reach or that you are just trying to manage your life better. For me personally, I generally don’t respond to work (from my 9-5) emails after about 6:30 pm or on the weekends. Everyone that works with me knows this and respects it. When I block out my calendar I even let my Husband know when I am on do not disturb so that I can be truly productive.
Define your boundaries for yourself and let those around you who will be affected by your new boundaries know exactly what they are. Defining boundaries in your life is a form of self-care.
Refresh and Recalibrate as needed
If doing things how you’ve always done them isn’t working for you anymore, then switch it up! Change up your workspace, wake up at a different time, change your routine. You don’t have to feel stuck doing things the same way just because that is how you’ve always done them. you’re allowed to evolve and grow.
Maybe you need to listen to new podcasts (I have a post on some of my faves linked here) or listen to new playlists while you work. You can refresh and recalibrate in many different ways.
Ask for Help
This might be one of the most important tips. If you feel overwhelmed, let someone know! If you have a spouse, don’t be afraid to let them know that because you are trying to focus on “X” more that you may need more help with “Y”. I hate when people say “You have the same 24 hours that Beyonce has” Yes, this is true, but she also has a ton of help to execute tasks.
We aren’t meant to navigate this world independently so reach out to friends, family or others in your community when you feel like you can’t balance all of life’s demands. Your loved ones will support you in your quest to have better life balance.
That’s all I have for now! Do you struggle with having balance? Let me know! I’d love to hear how you “balance” your life! Be sure to follow me on Instagram here so we can be friends!
Leave a Reply