It’s a delicate balance, yet it exists.
by Kristin Cicciarelli
Are you overwhelmed? Do you:
• Feel drained by the end of each day?
• Feel bitterness towards activities you once loved?
• Depend on food, alcohol, or other means to unwind?
If you identify with any of these, it may be time to seek a better equilibrium. Unfortunately, many of us overlook our body’s signals, opting for chaos instead. As Dr. Sandy Gluckman, a Functional Behavior and Health Coach for parents at www.parentstakecharge.com, points out, “We’re born with an extraordinary gift—a body that inherently knows how to maintain perfect health and balance. Yet, for some peculiar reason, we choose to ignore this divine endowment and instead push ourselves to the brink until we become unwell. Why do we do this?”
Letting Go of Your Inner Critic
Often, achieving balance starts with silencing our inner critic. According to Dr. Gluckman, “It’s our ego that insists we must be strong and flawless. Paying heed to it leads us to act in ways that disrupt the wonderful natural harmony of our spirit, body, and mind.” Consider taking a break from your “ego” every now and then, whether for a day or a week.
Identifying Your Key Priorities
If you’re feeling frustrated about your ability to give your all to work, family, and social life, try asking yourself: What matters most to me right now? Spending time with family? Going out with friends? Advancing in my career? Engaging in fulfilling work? List your top three priorities. Don’t judge them; just clarify what they are. Once you do this, finding balance can become more achievable.
Establishing Boundaries and Seeking Support
You can also work toward balance by managing the demands on your time. It’s perfectly acceptable to ask for assistance. Reach out to a colleague to take on a task that has become overwhelming. Encourage your children to help out more so you’re not doing laundry at midnight.
This principle of asking for help applies in many situations where balance feels elusive, such as making time for a partner or caring for an elderly parent while raising children. Seeking support when life becomes chaotic is crucial for maintaining your peace of mind.
Adjusting Your Expectations
If you love hosting gatherings but find elaborate dinners stressful, don’t abandon your passion. Consider organizing a simple potluck instead. If traveling brings you joy, but college expenses make vacations seem unrealistic, think creatively about your destinations. You can still live vibrantly, even on a budget. Perhaps this isn’t the year for a month-long journey in Europe, but you can discover an affordable, memorable getaway that you and your family will cherish.
There are only 24 hours in a day, and we still need time for sleep, exercise, and relaxation. Release your ego, be truthful about your priorities, seek additional help, and adjust your expectations. You just might discover yourself with a little more balance.
