In this year-end season of over-indulgence, over-commitment, and over-doing it, I think it seems reasonable to maintain life balance. That, of course, is easier said than done for most of us.
Taking a moment or two pausing requires a concerted effort. It takes time to find balance by getting organized. This starts with a reasonable schedule of events, personal obligations, or year-end activities. Situations that derail most of us are the enticing or unplanned events that throw a curve ball in our plans. Sure, we might want to do this or go there but will it help or hurt our commitment to an organized approach over the next few hectic weeks? Will it be an event that we can live with looking back and accept it as “OK”?
Next, find those favorite activities, places, and must-have indulgences that will get you through December 31st. While I am not condoning recklessness or submission to idle behavior, I am suggesting that a few simple changes can make all the difference. For instance, is there a favorite walking path you can take one afternoon that will help to alleviate stress? Is there a healthy snack that will break up a busy afternoon and bring much-needed relief? If so, go for it!
Finally, do not be afraid to just say no. Kindly bowing out of an unreasonable expectation of your time, dismissing yourself from a run-on meeting, or declining an invitation for a gossip-gripe session will free you. Creating space and boundaries will enable you to do what you need to do for yourself. At the same time, it will help you define what balance really means.
Dawn McCoy, author of Leadership Building Blocks: An Insider’s Guide to Success
