Do you own or have you seen those motivational block quotes? You know the ones that are black or colored wooden boxes with “house rules” or other words of inspiration and value that you can set on a shelf or hang on the wall. I own three of them. Scratch that I just bought one for my office shelf that makes four. However, the first one I bought sits on the mantel in my home as a daily reminder to work for balance in life:

“Don’t get so busy making a living that you forget to make a life.” 

The old adage is true today more than ever. Statistics are showing that more and more people have forgotten all about “making a life.” With more and more people working 40 hours or more, time for relaxation, and balance becomes thrown out the window. Yes, there is a part of all humanity that needs to survive, but there is a tipping point where survival becomes hindered by our constant need to work, or make money. It’s a hard one to argue too, because many are struggling in these wonky economic times. I know, both my husband and I have been titled as “workaholics” by family and friends.

Regardless of where you are with your finances, there are a few things that you can do to sustain balance, and maintain focus on making a life, not just a living.

How to Make a Life

1.) Create a scheduled break in your week – Everyone in the world gets seven days a week and 24 hours for each day. Within that time frame there must be a point where you can relax, and step away from responsibilities. If you are adamant that you do not have time, then perhaps you need to create a schedule and break down your 24 hours. Start with a log of what you did the previous day and itemize it. You’ll find that if you adjust a few things you will edge out an hour or even more with time that you can focus on your own projects, or simply meditate for a minute or two. Finding the time takes effort, and it will help you achieve greatness, whatever it may be for you.

2.) Throw out your smartphone – Ok, maybe you shouldn’t just toss it in the trash, but there should be times when you do not use it. Whether it’s at the dinner table or anywhere else, find a way to eliminate the need to be connected for a portion of your day. Unless you’re a doctor, or an emergency service provider, there has to be time dedicated to yourself and your family. Without this, you will find that media consumption will consume your personality and will eventually lead you to losing moments in life that would normally make you smile.

3.) Get some exercise – The dreaded “E” word, and it is right here for you. The requirement for adults to sustain manageable weight is not a curse. If you can get 30 minutes of exercise, three times a week, you will be doing the bare minimum required to help offset caloric intake. This doesn’t mean that you have to spend money and join a gym, instead it means to find something fun to do and just do it for 30 minutes.

4.) Plan a date night – If you’re in a long term relationship, or you’re married with children, find a way to incorporate at least one night where you are alone with your significant other. This may be a challenge, but if you get in the habit of scheduling it (like you would for important appointments), you’ll find you can make it happen. Connecting and communicating on a regular basis with loved ones or even with friends gives you a semblance of peace from life’s worries.

5.) Go out of town – Every few months make it a point to leave town. Go somewhere remote, or go somewhere fun, just go anywhere that is not your home. This will help you balance out your thoughts, recharge your proverbial batteries and give you a bit of balance. It’s easy to busy yourself with so much work that you forget to have fun, so don’t let that happen, find time to enjoy living life to the fullest. It will be well worth your efforts, guaranteed.