There is so much to do in life and it is very easy to get consumed by it. When you are afforded so many opportunities, why would you not say yes to all of them?

When I was in university I took on everything. I took a full course load and worked so much at my part time job that the hours were more reflective of a full time position. Yet looking back I wasn’t happy.

I was trying to fulfill a misguided notion that I should “have it all.” I found myself taking on more responsibilities than I could handle. With my plate spilling over I assumed that would lead me to a successful and full life. Instead, however, I was completely burned out! I had zero time for myself and became tragically overwhelmed.

There are only so many hours in the day, and as a human you truly cannot successfully do all at your highest ability. Something to strive for rather is a balance among all aspects of our lives: work, family, friends, and (most importantly) you!

I draw from the Ted Talk by Nigel Marsh where he highlights four observations to leading a more balanced life. I think the observations will help to facilitate our own personal growth and allow us to perform at a consistent frequency.

1. Some jobs are just not compatible with the lifestyle you desire.

I think coming to that realization can help steer people the direction that they would like to go. Figure out what you truly want. Take an inventory of what you want and cater your career around the type of lifestyle that you want to lead. For example, if you value your evenings, make sure that the job you have lets you leave work every night at a reasonable hour.

2. It’s your responsibility to set and enforce the boundaries you want in your life

Quite simply, if you don’t decide what you want in your life, someone else will decide it for you. When this happens, you’re bound to be unhappy because you’re conforming to someone else’s standard of balance. Take the initiative to really hammer out what you want in terms of balance and what will make you happy… and then take the appropriate steps to ensure that it happens.

3. Give yourself a realistic timeframe.

Having more balance starts with how you set your goals. Typically, people set out to create perfect days with every hour of the day planned out. Instead, give yourself permission to extend those goals to the rest of your week, month, or year. Be realistic about what you can accomplish in one day.

4. Take pleasure in the details.

Balance in your life does not come from dramatic changes. Joining a gym and deciding to run a marathon isn’t all of a sudden going to make you happier. Balance and happiness can come from little things in life. Try spending an hour or two with a friend over coffee on the weekends or ride your bike to work in the morning.

Photos Courtesy of Love It and The Wellness Warrior