Creative Balance

I’m impressed by people who have a great sense of self and can relax their body and mind to practice yoga.  The focus, strength and flexibility of people engaged in it are amazing.  However, that’s not the creative balance I’m referring to in my blog title.  I’m talking more about balancing everyday life with the have-to-dos, must-dos and would-like-to-dos.  

My blogging time has limited lately; clearly by the lack of entries each week.  I’m still focused on and training for my remaining half marathons.  That goal still remains as strong as the first day I thought about it. However, I’ve had to shift and reprioritize what I can do with the remaining time.  I work. I have family and friends who appreciate my company. I have hobbies (even a few outside of exercise :)).  Writing is one of my favorite hobbies but it’s put on the back burner to focus on other efforts right now.

As with all activities that consume your day, you have to evaluate what’s on your plate, what is a have-to-do vs. must-do vs. would-like-to-do (or simply, can I squeeze in a nap somewhere?!).  I advocate that health and wellness always stay on top of my must-do list.  It stays there for me, even if it has to take varying degrees at times. While I really enjoy writing about fitness, I’d pick actually going out for a four mile run than writing about it if I had a limited amount of time.  I try to build my schedule as much as I can to include health and wellness.  Sometimes I may only be able to squeeze in a walk or time to fix a healthier meal.  I know it all adds up and makes the decision easier for me when I need to decide what I can and what I can’t do today.

With the holidays fast approaching, it’s a good time to take a quick step back and ask yourself what your priorities are today, this week and the rest of this year.  One thing that moves up on my list is a good night’s sleep.  I know with a mountain of activities going on that getting a restful night of sleep will keep me sane and going strong.

Each year I also remind myself that this time of year is not the best time to create a weight loss goal.  Plenty of food temptations are presented almost daily during the holidays.  I know I’ll want to enjoy the different savory meals and sweet treats.  Trying to avoid everything isn’t any fun!  Instead, giving myself permission to eat various things at a sample size is more enjoyable.  It’s a great time to practice moderation and invite family and friends to go for a walk after meals too.

What strategies do you use find balance during the holidays? Do you have to get creative to get through the have-to-do and must-do list and find time for would-like-to-do activities?  How do you prioritize your list? Feel free to share your tips!

Miss FitGab