How To Succeed

What's missing in Sue's life right now ? Balance---that sense of control that can mean the difference between good stress and distress. In today's fast-paced environment, time is a valuable commodity. When you juggle multiple priorities such as career, home and family, there seems to never be enough time. The result is a lack of balance that can leave you feeling overwhelmed and depleted. Fortunately, it is possible to regain balance and get back on track. Here are some easy steps you can take right now to get greater control of your life.

Make Time For Yourself

Take a 20 minute refresher break each day. Set this time aside to do something just for you. By making this time for yourself, you can recharge your " psychic batteries " and actually increase your productivity throughout the day. What should you do during your refresher break ? First, close your eyes and think about the kinds of activities that make you happy. Perhaps it's going for a walk or calling a friend. Or maybe you like to indulge in a scented bubble bath or curl up with a good book. Make a personal "refresher list " of the activities you enjoy most. Then, before you go to bed each night, select the activity from your refresher list that you plan to enjoy the following day. Make your refresher break a part of your daily " to do " list. If you have to, schedule it on your calendar. Above all, don't feel guilty about taking this time for yourself. In order to give your best, you have to take care of yourself first.

Celebrate Your Success

It's a lot easier to get balance in your life when you recognize how much control you already have. If you focus on things you perceive to be your flaws, you take power away from yourself. Instead, applaud the things you do well. When you do something you're proud of, step back and celebrate your success. Praise yourself and live in the moment. A good way to take stock of your accomplishments is to keep a success journal. Record the little victories that make you feel good about yourself---a job promotion, losing 10 pounds, organizing your closet---whatever has meaning to you. Tuck into your journal mementos of your success such as congratulatory notes, thank you cards or photos. Then refer to your journal regularly. Not only will it make you feel good, you'll appreciate the balance you already have in your life. This can give you the incentive to take even more control.

Establish Support Networks

One thing is certain: There will be times when you need a helping hand. Whether it's someone to pick up your mail when you're away, a last-minute babysitter or a ride when your car won't start, you sometimes need to reach out to others for support. That's why establishing a support network is so important. Having a list of people you can contact when the unexpected or unavoidable happens can help you diffuse stress and maintain balance. Asking others for help makes them feel good. There are just two rules to keep in mind: (1) have more then one friend to call on so you have a back-up (and so you don't overload any one person), and (2) always be ready to return the favor, which builds equity in your personal relationships.

Practice Healthy Habits

Practicing healthy habits means taking care of your mental and physical well-being. This will give you the stamina to take greater control of your life. These easy-to-follow habits can enhance your sense of self-mastery, while boosting your health and energy level. Build exercise into your everyday activities (e.g., park farther away from your destination, take the stairs instead of the elevator, carry groceries to the car instead of driving to the curb). Drink 64 ounces of water a day. Eat a balanced diet from the six major food groups each day. Concentrate on whole grains, vegetables and fruits, while adding a moderate amount of protein, dairy and fats. Practice sitting still and breathing deeply for 10 minutes each day. Remember, balance begins when you start focusing on your needs. You don't have to be perfect; just start by adding a few of these tips to your daily routine. You'll soon find that, when it comes to life's balancing act, you've tipped the scales in your favor!

Kathleen Corsetty is a motivational speaker and founder of Healthy Habits of Gaithersburg, Maryland which is the culmination of her 15 years of study and practice in the health and image industries.