A Therapist in Balance

"How do I live a balanced life?" A question often asked by my clients. As we quickly or gradually progress in the work, hoping to accomplish goals through collaborative interventions, clients often find themselves lost or caught up in the mix, and forgetting how to balance personal, professional and family life. In our society where we are taught to "keep (our) eyes on the prize," we are left with sacrificing something great for another greatness. Thus, leaving us unfulfilled once again. So, how do we do it all, while keeping our sh*t together? 

Let's start off with what's most important? Prioritize and follow through on those commitments. More than anything, be honest with yourself. If your first priority is work and your second is family, that's okay- give yourself permission to be who you are. However, learn to balance work, so that family life doesn't have to suffer. From there, set measurable, attainable and realistic goals that you can and will accomplish and do just enough so that you can set time for other important aspects of life. Don't be afraid to ask for help. 

When you start noticing feelings of uplifted burden (its usually those guilt tinges), credit that to steps towards a more balanced life. Remember there is a process to living in balance. To those that feel like everyone else has it completely together and they don't, it's either a lie or you got them on a good day. Life has it's unexpected ups and downs, and from time to time you just have to readjust life and level it.