Sponsored by

Overwhelmed with Life: Simple Strategies to Find Your Balance

Hey there, fellow life-juggler! 👋

Ever feel like you’re trying to keep a dozen plates spinning while riding a unicycle on a tightrope? Yeah, me too. Life can be a real circus sometimes, can’t it? But here’s the thing: finding balance isn’t about perfecting your acrobatic skills. It’s about learning to enjoy the show, even when things get a little wobbly.

So, grab your favorite beverage (mine’s a caramel macchiato, but hey, you do you), and let’s dive into some simple strategies to help you find your balance in this crazy, beautiful circus we call life.

Participate in running research with RunDot and get two free months of run training

What is The RunDot Project?

It is an annual research initiative that uses optimized run training to help runners reach their true potential.

Why should you join?

RunDot athletes improve their running abilities, on average, 3.2x more than non-users, and experience performance improvements in 30% less training time.

Qualified participants also receive 2 free months of run training.

Do you qualify?

You are a good fit if you check these boxes:

• You train with a GPS-enabled device

• You have not used RunDot or TriDot in the last 12 months

• You are not a professional runner

• You are enthusiastic and motivated to accomplish your running goals

Do you meet these criteria?

Join the 2025 RunDot Project. Learn more and apply here.

1. The Art of Saying “No” (Without Feeling Like a Jerk)

I used to be a chronic “yes” person. Need someone to organize the office party? Sure! Want me to dog-sit your hyperactive puppy? Of course! But here’s what I’ve learned: every “yes” is a “no” to something else – often to your own well-being.

Try this: Next time someone asks you to do something, take a breath and ask yourself, “Is this aligned with my priorities right now?” If not, it’s okay to say, “I’m sorry, but I can’t take that on right now.” Trust me, the world won’t end, and you’ll have more time for what really matters.

2. The Magic of Micro-Breaks

We often think we need to meditate for an hour or take a week-long vacation to recharge. But let’s be real – who has time for that on a regular Tuesday? Enter the micro-break.

Try this: Set a timer for 5 minutes. Close your eyes, take deep breaths, and imagine you’re in your happy place. Maybe it’s a beach, a mountain top, or your cozy bed. When the timer goes off, open your eyes and get back to your day. You’ll be amazed at how refreshed you feel.

3. Tame the Tech Beast

I love technology as much as the next person, but sometimes I feel like my phone is more of a taskmaster than a tool. Sound familiar?

Try this: Designate certain hours as “phone-free” time. Maybe it’s during dinner, or the first hour after you wake up. Use this time to connect with loved ones, read a book, or just enjoy some quiet. Your notifications will still be there later, I promise.

4. The “Good Enough” Revolution

Perfectionism is the enemy of balance. I used to agonize over every detail of every project, but you know what? Done is often better than perfect.

Try this: Next time you’re working on something, ask yourself, “Is this good enough to meet its purpose?” If the answer is yes, let it go and move on. Save your perfectionism for the things that truly matter.

5. Create a “Ta-Da” List

We’re all familiar with to-do lists, but how about a “ta-da” list? At the end of each day, write down three things you accomplished, no matter how small.

Try this: Keep a notebook by your bed. Before you go to sleep, jot down three “ta-das” from your day. Maybe you finally made that dentist appointment, or you remembered to water your plants. Celebrate those wins!

6. The Power of “No, but…”

Sometimes, saying a flat “no” feels too harsh. That’s where the “no, but…” technique comes in handy.

Try this: When you need to decline something, offer an alternative. For example, “I can’t take on that project right now, but I’d be happy to review the final draft” or “I can’t make dinner tonight, but how about we grab lunch next week?”

7. Embrace the Chaos (Sometimes)

Life isn’t always going to be perfectly balanced, and that’s okay. Sometimes, embracing the chaos can lead to unexpected joys.

Try this: Once a month, have a “yes” day. Say yes to (almost) everything that comes your way. You might discover a new hobby, make a new friend, or at the very least, have a great story to tell.

8. The 2-Minute Rule

If a task will take less than two minutes to complete, do it immediately. This prevents small tasks from piling up and becoming overwhelming.

Try this: Keep a timer handy. When a small task pops up, ask yourself, “Can I do this in two minutes or less?” If yes, do it right away. You’ll be surprised at how much you can accomplish!

9. Schedule “Worry Time”

This might sound weird, but hear me out. If you’re prone to worrying (join the club!), try scheduling specific “worry time” each day.

Try this: Set aside 15 minutes each day for worrying. When worries pop up during the day, jot them down and save them for your designated worry time. This helps contain anxiety and prevents it from taking over your entire day.

10. Practice Gratitude (Without the Eye Roll)

I know, I know. Gratitude practices can feel a bit cheesy. But there’s a reason everyone keeps talking about them – they work!

Try this: Each night, think of three things you’re grateful for. They can be big (got a promotion!) or small (found a parking spot right away). This simple practice can shift your focus from what’s overwhelming to what’s good in your life.

Remember, finding balance isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about creating a life that feels good on the inside, not one that just looks good on the outside. So be kind to yourself, celebrate your progress, and don’t forget to enjoy the journey.

You’ve got this, my friend. Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a date with a caramel macchiato and my “ta-da” list. 😉

This Day in History: February 11

Before we wrap up, let’s take a quick trip down memory lane. Here are some interesting events that happened on this day in history:

1. 1990: Nelson Mandela is released from Victor Verster Prison outside Cape Town, South Africa, after 27 years as a political prisoner. Talk about perseverance and balance in the face of adversity!

2. 1847: Thomas Edison, the wizard of Menlo Park, was born. His inventions, including the phonograph and the light bulb, changed the world. Remember, even geniuses need work-life balance!

3. 1963: The Beatles recorded their debut album, “Please Please Me,” in a single day at Abbey Road Studios. Sometimes, amazing things can happen when we focus intensely for a short period!

4. 2012: Whitney Houston, one of the best-selling artists of all time, tragically passed away. Her incredible talent reminds us of the importance of self-care and balance in the high-pressure world of fame.

5. 2020: The World Health Organization officially named the novel coronavirus disease COVID-19. Little did we know how much this would test our ability to adapt and find balance in unprecedented times.

These events remind us that history is full of triumphs, challenges, and unexpected turns. Just like in our personal lives, the key is how we respond and find our balance amidst it all.

Stay balanced, stay curious, and who knows? Maybe you’ll make history too!😊