Add Balance to Franticness
Balance. Sometimes that one word throws us into a tizzy. We think, “If only I could add more balance into my life.” But, how many times do we actually sit down and think about what we do have in our lives in the way of balance? Or, do we ever give it a moment of consideration? Do we automatically think we don’t have balance in our lives since we are so frantic?
Balance isn’t necessarily about doing a little of this and a little of that. It isn’t even about off-setting responsibilities with enjoyment. No, balance is a comfort level, an attitude. In order to feel balanced in our outward lives, we need to feel secure in who we are on the inside--and in the roles we are playing.
With that, we want you to spend a little time thinking about what you do have in your life in the way of balance.
Balance isn’t always about a weekend getaway, a day at the spa or 24 hours of peace and quiet. No, balance could be the little things in life you do to make it through the day. Or it could be the smallest of actions that bring a smile to your face.
Consider this quote from Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy:
You might think balance has to be by yourself, alone. But it doesn’t. It can be with someone else.
In thinking of balance, give some thought to life’s little pleasures. An example of this, Judith loves coffee. She treats herself to her favorite brew at least once a week while she’s trying to squeeze in some work time away from the ever-present household responsibilities. This simple treat gives her the feeling of enjoyment while she’s working.
Another example for Judith is she loves game boards. Not only as a child, but she still loves them as an adult. The end of a crazy day filled with more commitments than time is a great chance for Judith to spend 30 minutes or so connecting with her children while playing her favorite board game. By doing this, Judith has a chance to unwind and relax.
For Mary Jo, balance came unexpectedly. Her son wanted her to catch his rebounds from his foul shots he had to do for basketball practice. Although she moaned about doing so, one day she realized she was having fun, laughing and getting in a bit of exercise too. Later, she recognized that time out of the house gave her a chance not only to enjoy the fresh air, but also to connect with her teenage son.
Another one for Mary Jo is taking a walk while listening to a book on tape. The walk is necessary, but the audio book makes the exercise seem like a treat rather than a chore.
These are simple, easy ways to add a little bit of balance. Find something, one thing that you can do for you. One thing that adds a smile to your face or you can look forward to when life throws that darn curve ball. But first, think about what you do in your life that could be a balance that you haven't recognized or considered as such before?
Here’s a mini-exercise to get you started:
Exercise
- What balances do you already have?
- What do you need?
If you feel you need a little something extra in your life, that’s okay. Now, you’ve recognized it and you can add something that will bring a smile to you. Enjoy.
Copyright © FranticWoman 2002
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