Tips for a More Balanced Life

During the school year, I find it so hard to find balance. My life is so centered around school and then around homework that sometimes it is really discouraging that I don't have free time for some of the things that I love. Junior and senior year have been practically busy so I have definitely learned how to lead a life that is a bit more balanced.

Give yourself one day of the weekend for you

I started doing this in the spring and it has been so helpful. I give myself one day "off" to do whatever I want- whether it's hanging out with friends or go shopping or just hanging out at home relaxing. The other day of the weekend, I do all my homework and get stuff done. This has such a good way to stay balanced because it allows you to have at least one completely school (or work) free day a week.

Learn to say no
I've definitely learned that you can't do everything. Whether it's an extra project for extra credit or a dinner out when you're exhausted, sometimes you just need to say no.

Turn off the electronics before bed

There are days when I'm ready for bed fairly early but wind up going to bed late because I spend a hour scrolling through my phone. Keeping my phone (or iPad) in another room really helps because I'm able to get more sleep but it is also better for your eyes and sleep quality to do so.

Know when to switch out of school/work mode
I'm one of those people who will not stop until everything on my to-do list is checked off. However, this doesn't always provide for a balanced life. It's so important to know when to stop working and spend time relaxing or hanging with friends and family or whatever you enjoy.

Stay on top of emails

This seems counterproductive but hear me out. Dealing with emails as they come rather than letting them pile up is so much more time-efficient. Simply putting emails into folders and cleaning out your emails really organizes everything

Workout

Working out has so many benefits- not to mention during a tough workout, you're not thinking about assignments or studying but instead focusing on you. My Pure Barre classes are a school free zone as I don't think about school when I'm at the barre, which is so helpful for me.

Give yourself time to do what you love everyday

Nothing leads to burnout quicker than working 100% of the time. I think it's so important to do something you love everyday whether that means going to get a coffee or reading for 15 minutes before bed.

Get enough Sleep
Never sacrifice sleep to "fit in all in". Sleep needs to be one of those non-negoitables and has a significant effect on your health and mood.

How do you lead a balanced life? Let me know in the comments!