Tips for Creating Life Balance

Over the years in my practice of counseling I have consistently attempted to inform my clients the benefits of creating a life balance. I often observe that people sink into a rut of doing only one or two things that take over their life such as working and watching TV. There is certainly nothing wrong with either of these things but if they are done repeatedly and consume too much of an individual's life, so many wonderful experiences and opportunities are lost.

To evaluate your life balance, I recommend that you review your routine and activities by using a Life Domain Model. This model serves as a guide in seeking enjoyable and meaningful activity in defined areas of life. Whenever feelings of boredom, unhappiness or discontent arise, take a moment to review the following Life Domains and see if you have neglected your life in any of these areas.

Physical
Take time for improved nutrition, exercise and proper health care.

Emotional
Acknowledge your emotions and express them. Get involved in life on an emotional level.

Mental
Take time for reading, study and learning. Use your mind and brain- power. Visit the library, join a book club or work a crossword puzzle.

Family
Give ample attention to family time and pursuits: outings, picnics, holidays, birthdays, etc.

Social
Take time to share with friends and join in fun activities with others.

Spiritual or Philosophical
Acknowledge the deeper meaning of life. Explore life's subtleties, question the meaning of your existence. Explore philosophy, religion and spirituality.

Educational
It really is fun as well as healthy to learn new things. Continue your formal education or teach yourself a new skill.

Recreational
Have fun on a regular basis. Play ball, ride a bike, fly a kite, travel, dance, laugh and enjoy life.

Employment
Identify how your job affects your emotions. Try to work in a fulfilling job that is not overly stressful.

Creative
Find a way to express your creativity - art, music, woodworking, writing, gardening, decorating your home. It's not the product that counts as much as the enjoyment of doing it.

By using this simple model you should easily be able to identify some of the areas of greatest need for increased activity. You can promote a more fulfilling life by establishing and maintaining some balance in your activities.