Having many commitments in your life can be draining, no matter how much enjoyment you are receiving from them. In between school, work and a social life, it may seem like there is no time to stop and simply be. The time that we need to spend taking care of our bodies and recovering our busy minds disappears in the midst of all this craziness! Now let me tell you that with these top tips that I will explain in this article, finding balance in a busy schedule will be something that you can achieve. Make them your habits and you are guaranteed to find peace, even when you have a test to study for, a work shift to cover and a friend to meet, all in one day!
1. Exercise regularly
Pick an activity that makes you break a sweat, and keep it up on a consistent basis. The benefits of regular exercise are endless. By including it in your weekly schedule, you will gain strength, feel energized and have the ability to focus and prioritize optimally. Exercising is the top proven stress buster and it releases endorphins, our body’s natural “feel good” chemicals.
2. Separate work, play and rest
A simple, yet powerful strategy in maintaining optimal energy levels is to create separation in the different kinds of activities that you do. It doesn’t help to do one thing, but think about another. For example, focusing on thinking about all your extra commitments and work projects that need attention when you are spending time relaxing. Thinking about everything you have to do while you are trying to relax will only waste your precious energy. A great tip is to write down everything you have to do and plan it for a later time. In doing this, you give your mind the space it needs to really relax.
3. Listen to music
Need motivation? Music is an instant way to give yourself a shot of energy. Listen to upbeat and inspiring tunes and getting through your day will be that much more easeful. Download some songs onto your phone or IPod and have that constant motivation you need to stay positive and energized throughout the whole day! “Young the Giant”, “Arcade Fire” and “Foster The People” are all great bands that will raise your spirits.
4. Eat Smaller, More Frequent Meals
Eating smaller meals throughout the day, paired with some healthy snacks is proven to be a helpful strategy in maintaining optimal energy all day. Eating one or two big meals a day may seem easy, but it is not necessary easy on the body! Spacing out our intake of food is not only better for the digestive system, but it guarantees a constant energy flow all day.
5. Avoid Arguments
Arguments are a waste of energy, plain and simple. They don’t accomplish anything. Save yourself the time and effort by trying your best to argue less and put that extra focus into having calm and meaningful discussions.
6. Set Time Limits
This is a biggie. When we sit down to do a project, complete an assignment or even simply spend time with friends, it is important to set a time limit. Your energy stores don’t run endlessly unless they are replenished regularly. So when you feel like you’ve reached your limit, stop and remind yourself that you need that time to replenish your energy stores and take care of yourself. This is the best way to avoid burnout and exhaustion.
7. Ask for What You Need
We all need support at times. And one of the simplest ways to get it is to ask. Sometimes we don’t have the energy to do things on our own all the time. So identify your needs and ask for the support, whatever it may be. You might be surprised that it doesn’t take much to boost your energy back up!
