It can be difficult to find balance in one’s life with so many responsibilities and relationships to juggle. We may end up feeling overwhelmed by it all. Below are four reasons you may find yourself continuing to struggle with finding and maintaining balance in your life.
You haven’t clearly defined your idea of balance.
Wishing for balance without truly understanding what it means to you is pointless. This varies for everyone, whether it means balancing one’s responsibilities, work-life, family, friends, or personal time.
Sometimes it just feels good to write down our emotions on paper. While we may not feel comfortable talking to someone, we can still release some of our emotions by jotting them down in a journal. It’s a great tool to use to talk about what’s going on in our lives and how to better find balance with what we are struggling with.
Once you have an idea about what a balanced life means, you can begin to make choices that align with that vision. And, you can measure your progress in moving toward the life-balance you desire.
You are not practicing self-discipline.
If you are struggling with finding balance in your life, you may need to set boundaries with yourself and with others. We all can benefit by practicing saying no. We don’t have to do everything that others want us to do, or partake in activities that we know will not be beneficial. In order to live a balanced life, you will have to give yourself permission to prioritize making balanced choices. Don’t feel guilty about turning down something that will make you feel overwhelmed.
You aren’t making time for yourself.
It’s impossible to find balance if we don’t make time for ourselves. It can be something as simple as indulging in a hobby of yours or giving yourself time to relax and decompress. It doesn’t matter what you plan to do in your free time as long as it gives you some time away from your daily obligations. This is something nobody should feel guilty about. It’s difficult, and eventually impossible, to take care of others if you don’t take care of yourself.
As the Buddha says, “You can search throughout the entire universe for someone who is more deserving of your love and affection than you are yourself, and that person is not to be found anywhere. You yourself, as much as anybody in the entire universe deserve your love and affection.”
You don’t have a consistent plan.
By having a plan, we can achieve much more balance in our lives. Make a schedule each week. If you have too much going on, there is no shame in canceling something to make time. None of us should feel rushed from the moment we get out of bed until the end of the day. Having a plan will allow you to visualize every task you have throughout the day or week. Make sure you are including time to rest, time to recharge and be inspired, and time to care for yourself. Then celebrate when you see the week has unfolded in a more balanced way. And then allow for some unscheduled time. Being scheduled to the brim is counterproductive.
In conclusion, there are some ways that we can all find balance in our lives. By utilizing the above tips, you will feel less stressed and have more control. Creating balance will allow you to live a better life and be more effective in your everyday tasks.
To learn more about Tj Bartel and how he helps men and couples create more harmonious, deeply intimate relationships, visit his coaching website.