by Judy Mosca

Created on: April 12, 2009   Last Updated: June 29, 2009

Life is a journey we embark upon from the moment of birth. As we mature, we recognize that our very nature deeply desires to know that we have value and worth. Our completed tasks become the measuring sticks used in grading ourselves. We tend to increase our activities striving for perfection. Taking a few minutes to do something that is just for us, says we are important enough to utilize our time in this way.

Here are 10 ways that can lead us to a balanced life.

1. Flexible Planning

Our To-Do Lists are designed by us. Trying not to do everything in one day, but spreading it out over a week relieves pressure.

A monthly planner is an useful tool. Pencil in professional appointments then weekly, write a few things down for each day that need to be done. Leave room for the unexpected. Review the planner daily to make any desirable adjustments.

The demands we place on ourselves or those initiated by others, can catapult us into a world of frenzy. Feeling frazzled, anxious, and that life is out of control is an emotional roller coaster ride of ups and downs.

2. Be Grateful

Finding the kitchen to be a disaster zone is enough to alter our peace. Express a grateful heart saying, I am thankful that my family had food to eat and utensils to eat from' or, I am glad I went to the grocery store yesterday. Making such an affirmation staves off a disgruntled attitude.

3. Mini-Breaks

Take a moment between tasks to thumb through a magazine or scan the TV guide for a program of interest to be viewed later. Catching a glimpse of a squirrel, pause and watch the squirrel scamper off to unknown destinations. Observe a bird feeding, listen to it's song till it flies away.

4. Dream

We can close our eyes and visualize a moment of the vacation we planned. Perhaps we are going on a cruise. While standing on the deck overlooking the vastness of the ocean, feel the gentle breezes. At sunset see it disappear into the ocean.

5. Laugh

Laughing loosens us up and repels stress. Laugh at funny things or watch a good comedy. It's okay to laugh when we start to put the sugar bowl in the refrigerator or the milk in the cupboard. Choose to see the humor.

6. Smile

Ever looked at people while shopping? We are seldom met by a smile. Faces are drawn and sad. Give them a smile. It is amazing how we can brighten up someone's day.

7. Memories

Sit down and breathe deeply. Think of some things in the past that were pleasant, amusing or just plain funny. Thinking about them from time to time keeps them alive.

8. Play Music and Light Candles

While going about our day we can play the music we enjoy or are in the mood for. Singing along is fun too.

Lighting scented candles have a very calming affect, especially vanilla and lavender. Experiment with different scents discovering favorites. The air smells good and makes us feel good too.

9. Eat Healthy Food, Exercise, Get Plenty of Rest

We put eating healthy, exercise and getting enough rest on the back burner, giving a higher priority to the tasks we need to complete. Taking care of our physical health should be one of our highest priorities.

10. Be Patient

It has been said that Rome wasn't built in day so we need to be patient with ourselves. As we begin to make changes in our daily routine, remember old habits are not easy to break, but in time we will be successful.

In conclusion, being good, kind and gentle to ourselves is as important as doing the same unto others. Resting in the knowledge we are very valuable and worth a great deal, creates peace within and lends to living a life in balance. Let's really enjoy the journey.

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