I realized the other day that I’ve not been practicing what I’ve been preaching lately.  In sharing ideas with a client on achieving balance in her own life (juggling work, kids, a husband, community involvement, etc.), I discovered that I, too, could benefit from my own advice.

I’ve always been a workhorse, and now that what started out as a hobby as become a full-time career, I spend far too much time ‘at work’ (in front of my computer, on the phone, out-and-about networking, etc.)   Don’t get me wrong – I love what I do, but it’s work nonetheless, and it does take a toll on one’s body, spirit, and mind.

I work primarily from home, which is a great blessing -when I use my time wisely.  It’s a great curse, though, when I’ve placed unreasonable deadlines on myself.  For the past week or so, I’ve felt tired and not as clear-headed as I should be; this is my body’s way of telling me I’m off balance.

Lack of balance affects so many of us, and can certainly lead to stress, fatigue, irritability, and illness. We may also feel as if we’re stuck in a rut.  Trust me, that’s no way to live!

With that in mind, I’m taking the information I offer clients, sharing it with you, and applying it to my own life:

1. Prioritize

Clarifying our priorities is the first and most essential step toward achieving a well-balanced life. The importance lies in what YOUR priorities are, not what you think they should be, or what others have told you they should be.

2. Rid yourself of clutter:

Make a concrete list of what really matters to you, and you may discover you’re devoting too much time to activities that aren’t really all that important. How much time do you spend perusing the Internet?  How much time do you spend watching TV?  Drop pursuits that don’t serve you.

3. Protect Your Private Time

You schedule your time at work.  Your private time deserves the same respect, don’t you think? Set aside hours that benefit you and your relationships. Refrain from checking email and phone calls so often. Guard your personal time fervently and don’t let work or other distractions intrude.

4. Seek Help

It’s okay to ask for help.  Allow yourself to rely on your partner, family members, or friends to run errands or watch the kids while you take a little time for yourself.  If you can, hire someone to clean your house.  Asking for help isn’t selfish nor is it a sign of weakness.

5. Make a Play Date

Fun and relaxation are key components of a balanced life. If you believe that the most important thing is to be happy right now (I know I do!) then you should always make time for fun. Don’t toss the notion aside with a dismissive “I don’t have time for that.”  Take control of your schedule and make the time.

Remember, striking balance is a continuous process. Demands on your time change as your family, interests, and career change.  Review your situation every few months to make sure you’re keeping on track.

As women, many of us feel we must be able to do it all. We don’t!  Let’s examine our priorities and set boundaries. Let’s be firm in what we can and cannot do. Let’s feel free to say no every once in a while. We can restore balance into our lives if, we allow ourselves to do so.

Beth Newman is an Image Consultant and Life Coach based out of Houston, TX.  She conducts seminars, online consultations, and one-on-one consultations.  For more information, feel free to visit her website at www.newmanimage.info

Photo Credit © Yuri Arcurs | Dreamstime.com