Balancing Life’s Priorities
Balancing multiple things can be difficult, especially when it comes to trying to manage two of life’s major priorities – going to school and working at the same time. This can be taxing on any person no matter how old they may be. The strain of going to school all day and then leaving there to go to work at night can be exhausting. These years can be filled with non-stop plans and changes so be sure to take time to check in with yourself. If we don’t check in with ourselves we can burn out and be left feeling tired, worn down, and empty. This could look like being irritable, fatigued, isolating, feeling unable to manage daily activities, and more.
It is important to recognize when you are in need of a break so that you can take care of yourself well.
You and your mind, body, and soul are just as important as the other priorities in your life.
Here are a few useful tips for keeping a healthy balance:
Disconnecting from technology. Technology can be a great source of distraction if needed, but pay attention to what your body and mind need and if that includes taking a break from screens for a short period of time. This will give you the chance to escape from the pressure, and standards you may feel and renew your mind. It may give you the opportunity to slow down, take some deep breaths, and focus on positivity.
Keep a daily schedule of what you need to get done, but also schedule time in your day for self-care. Make sure you prioritize the important things in your schedule, which also includes taking care of yourself. Evaluate what you need to do to recharge so that you can continue taking on your day without feeling burnt out. Schedule in some small breaks so that you can have a healthy balance and feel like you can maintain all the tasks that you have lined up. Continue checking in with yourself and evaluating what needs to get done, but also what you need for yourself.
Expect Imperfection. Nobody is perfect. No matter how hard you work, things may not be complete and organized. Learn and focus on small successes. Focus on the small things that have gone well to keep your thinking positive and productive.
Power of Acceptance. Accept that it will be messy and stressful at times, or even often. Accept that you will get exhausted! Belief that you should be able to balance it all is unrealistic. Acceptance looks like being ok with where you are at and recognizing that you are trying, and its ok to not be perfect in everything you do. It looks like accepting the different parts of yourself and not being too tough on yourself!
If you are looking for ways to be supported in this process or you would like someone to help you better manage the stressors of life, the team at Discover Hope would love to help you. Contact us to see if therapy is right for you.
