Pursue Balance

What does it mean to pursue balance? According to Google a balanced life means ‘achieving optimal health in all aspects of your life: relationships, work, fitness, health, and emotional happiness’. So essentially a perfect life right!? Well for most of us, myself included this is possibly one of the hardest things to manage and maintain but research and experience have proven that balance is one of the main keys to a healthy, mentally sound life.

Prior to my mental healing journey, my life was very one dimensional. My addictions consumed my time, resources and mind. My depression and anxiety stole my peace and purpose, and my low self-esteem stole my confidence and relational capacity. With all these vices and negative thoughts controlling my life, there was very little room for anything else and so the cycle went on for years and years to the point of a mental breakdown. The true cause, imbalance.

How Does One Achieve Balance?

First, start of by not overwhelming yourself with the ideal. No one is fully balance approved however those who are better acquainted with a balanced lifestyle would tell you that balance begins right where you are. It’s in the routine, the priorities, the goals, the persistence and desire to want to be healthier and better. All these form part of a balanced life.

Here are some key tips that can contribute to a balanced life:

1. Set Priorities: Identify what matters most to you in different aspects of your life and allocate your time and energy according to these priorities.

2. Establish Boundaries: Learn to say no to things that do not align with your priorities or values. Setting boundaries can help prevent burnout and protect your time for the things that truly matter.

3. Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: Prioritize your physical and mental well-being by getting regular exercise, eating nutritious foods, getting enough sleep, and managing stress.

4. Cultivate Relationships: Nurture your relationships with family, friends, and colleagues. Social connections are essential for emotional support and overall well-being.

5. Pursue Personal Growth: Set aside time for activities that help you grow personally and professionally, such as learning new skills, pursuing hobbies, or engaging in meaningful experiences.

6. Seek Work-Life Balance: Strive to find a healthy balance between your work responsibilities and personal life. Set boundaries around work hours and make time for relaxation and activities that bring you joy.

7. Embrace Flexibility: Understand that achieving balance is an ongoing process that may require adjustments over time. Be flexible and willing to adapt your routines and priorities as needed.

The most important tip I want to leave you with is not to put too much pressure on yourself. Do your best because your best is enough. A balanced life is a marathon not a sprint so don’t feel bummed when it looks like you’re just not getting it. In my experience its in moments like these that change is happening, it’s just never at the pace we want and in the way we would like to see it.

Every step is bringing you one step closer to the finish line, stay the course your almost there!