Make it from “one side to the other” successfully.
Well-being and balance: two concepts discussed often in the mental health and medical field. Yet, these two concepts are so difficult at times to acquire and to master. Good news – you can master these skills, but just like with any other skill it takes practice. Balance in life (both home and work) allows you, as an individual, to have more peace and joy.
Imagine standing on a tightrope with your arms out to your sides. In this scenario, I want you to imagine holding your mental/emotional health on your right side and holding your responsibilities on your left side. Which side is causing you to lean? Are you well-balanced and staying perfectly straight? Or are you about to topple over? If you’re leaning more towards the left, you are really having to overcompensate causing you to tremble or shake and the concern is you will fall altogether. However, if you master the ability to balance between the two you will be able to continue without thinking of one side or the other. This is where well-being kicks in.
This analogy can have so much strength because it causes you to really consider and visualise what is going on in your life and how it may be affecting you. Balance can be achieved. And once you can find balance in one area of your life, most likely you will be searching for the balance in other areas of life. It is a skill which can be mastered!
Time management
Time management is key. As we are able to manage our time, we can create a sense of balance. For example, if you have 5 tasks to complete within 5 hours, it may be helpful to create a time limit you will spend on each task. Sometimes, this is done for us. Other times, it is in our control. Manage your time. Set timers. Create lists. Write down goals.
Set Boundaries
If you begin feeling overwhelmed, set a boundary for yourself. This may include you having to be assertive, but assertive does not mean aggressive. Setting boundaries do not mean failure. Setting boundaries mean you know what limits you should stay between in order to function well in every aspect of your life. Furthermore, setting boundaries helps you to be clear with yourself about your priorities and your responsibilities.
Practice Self-Care
Self-care is crucial. It helps you to be mentally, emotionally, and physically stronger. Self-care activities include writing/journaling, exercise, being crafty/creative, having a strong social support group (friends, family, religious family, etc.), woodworking, scrapbooking, cooking/baking, just to name a few. Take time for yourself. Eat healthy foods and drink plenty of water. Find a way to laugh or to smile. Get outside and be in the sun.
Create Routines
As you create routines for yourself, you allow yourself a sense of control. Even if during those routines things are hectic, you still have a sense of control. Routines allow you to have a sense of expectancy and this allows some balance. Think about your morning routines. Does your morning go more smoothly with a routine? Now, apply this through your day.
Balance is not always easy. There are times we must overcompensate. There are times in which balance comes so easily and feels great! Emotions like guilt and fear can get in the way. However, as you cultivate your priorities, find a routine, set the boundary, acquire time management skills, and practice taking care of yourself, you will feel more well-adept to tackle anything life throws at you. You will find more balance and peace.
