I should print this out. 100 times. and hide a copy anywhere and everywhere I can think of because I constantly need reminding. For some reason, no matter how hard I try, I just can’t do it. Maybe I’ll be “good” for a week or so, but it’s just not in my DNA or something. Like, for lack of better words, I’m not wired to be balanced. And this is a SERIOUS issue. Wouldn’t you say?

What’s the secret? But really though, how does one do it? I think there are a number of possible answers, but it all boils down to making a conscious effort (in my opinion). Continue reading after the jump if you like these kinds of posts. But for the rest of you, I’ll post something more fashion/decor/ oriented later!

Some might say that living a balanced life is about being self-disciplined.  and I can confidently say that I am SERIOUSLY lacking in this category. I’m sure you’re thinking, yea…right. and if you asked anyone who knew me (if I were a self-disciplined person), they would probably give you some version of a very dramatic YES! But I’m not so sure that’s the right word. I think determined or tenacious is probably a better fit. Because disciplined people know when to walk away, push back, switch it up, and so on. But me, on the other hand, I have no such skill.

When I think about living a balanced life, two truths come to mind. One being that life is what you make it and the other being that too much of anything can be bad.  And thinking about how those two truths work together can really teach us a lot. Especially for people who see the world in black and white, one extreme or the other (like me!).  It’s only human nature to be competitive in some way or another. And we all know that doing well and/or getting better at something means hard work. And usually, the trend is that the harder you work, the better you do. And you can always get better, work harder, stay later, etc etc. It’s a never ending cycle.  Sometimes it’s easy to shut it all off, but other times it’s really hard for me to do nothing–to completely STOP. Or to walk away from a task because I need to exercise, shower, respond to a text, sleep, etc.! You know the feeling, right?!

But I’m starting to realize, though, that in order for me to make it in this world, I’ve GOT to figure out how to be more balanced. I must learn how to live my life according to my priorities, rather than by my interests or deadlines.  Because let’s face it, the only thing I have to worry about (relatively speaking) at 22 years old is taking care of myself. Come on now, that’s pathetic. I can’t even imagine adding some toddlers, a husband, soccer games, dance recitals, a mortgage, and other adult stuff to the equation. (eeek!)

So what does this mean for me (and maybe you too!)? Well, first and foremost, knowing my priorities and making time for what’s important. Because this will set the foundation for everything else. How am I going to do this though? I’m a list-maker, so naturally I start thinking in list format. and the first things that come to mind are:

1. Plan ahead, with the big picture in mind

2. Set alarms – try not to lose track of time

3. Do it now, not later

4. Finished is better than perfect

5. NEVER SAY, “just a little longer.” This = BAD

6. CLOSE the computer and walk away. No excuses.

and with that, I’m going to call it a day and press publish. Because one of my new rules is that I MUST sleep. That’s a good one, right? haha. Please share your thoughts, tricks, secrets to living a balanced life. You guys should know by now that I LOVE hearing from you!