Finding the right balance is, or should be, a primary goal in everyone’s life. We all know that in order to be happier and healthier, it’s important to strive towards a more balanced lifestyle. Maintaining a balanced lifestyle doesn’t only make us happier, but it also helps us to become more productive and successful in our day-to-day tasks.

While the idea of finding a better balance in life sounds ideal, one big question arises: How can we possibly achieve better balance in our lives amidst the chaos of our busy schedules? The answer: It’s easier than you may think.

There are plenty of helpful strategies that can help you to feel more balanced and fulfilled in your life, even with a busy schedule. The key is to begin by making a series of small changes in your life that will encourage you to develop healthier habits over time. Here are some things you can do right now to find more balance in your life.

1. Evaluate your relationships. We’re all guilty of feeling like we don’t make enough time for family, friends, or even our significant others. It’s easy to get caught up in front of the television, watching your favorite show, or just losing touch with those we care about. If you’ve begun to feel like you’ve shut out the people closest you, or you just aren’t putting the time and effort into friendships, then you should consider setting up a get together or special date night to get back in touch!
2. Don’t forget to treat yourself. If you find yourself getting bogged down with school, work, family, or other responsibilities, it’s time to take a step back and treat yourself. If you’ve been thinking about getting a massage since last year, go ahead and book one. Maybe you enjoy a specific cup of coffee or a glass of wine. Treat yourself to a relaxing evening at home in a warm bubble bath, surrounded by scented candles. It’s important to balance out the stressors of daily life with some quiet, reflective moments that you can enjoy as well.
3. Keep up with your health.  It’s no secret that living a more balanced life goes hand in hand with being healthy. Don’t wait until a serious health problem arises to start taking care of your body! Part of maintaining a balanced life means feeling healthy and strong each day, and taking steps to improve your overall health is a long-term process. If you don’t feel and look your best, there’s a good chance it will negatively affect other aspects of your life, too. Boost your daily productivity and happiness by getting enough exercise, sleep, and eating healthy. Your body will thank you!
4. Surround yourself with positive influences.  Are there people in your life that are negative influences? Toxic people, such as constant complainers and those with poor attitudes can severely affect your attitude. In order to maintain a more balanced lifestyle, it is important to surround yourself with positive-minded people, and ditch those who bring you down.
5. Have your alone time.  Having a busy schedule can make it difficult to set aside time for yourself, but alone time is necessary in order to lower stress and boost happiness. If you struggle with finding ways to spend time with yourself, try meditating, drawing, writing, or doing some yoga—whatever makes you happy and lets you unwind at the end of a long day.
6. Say goodbye to technology. (Not for good, obviously.) Try to spend less time checking social media and unplug for a while. Constantly checking social media and spending time on your phone can take away valuable time with family and friends.  A good way to limit the amount of time you’re spending on social media is to simply put your phone down and find something else to do. Try doing this for a few hours every night, or even an entire day during the weekend.
7. Prioritize.  In order to achieve a better balance in life, it is important to learn how to manage your priorities. Many people find it hard to say no to people, and they end up making promises they can’t keep or feeling overwhelmed with responsibility. Don’t be afraid to say no to some things. If it’s not going to add value into your life, or is not essential, then just say no.
8. Expand your knowledge.  It’s time to take on a new hobby.  Learn how to play guitar, write, or paint.  Whatever it may be, try something new.
9. Be an explorer.  Instead of taking the same route back home, try a different one.  Take a walk and notice what’s around you.  Bring a camera along with you, and take some pictures.  Plan a visit to another town nearby, or pretend to be a tourist in your own town.  You’d be amazed at how looking at the world a little bit differently can drastically change your perspective.
10. Have fun.  Don’t stay in serious mode permanently. Find your sense of humor, joke around, and laugh a little bit more.  It’s okay to have fun!

Remember, it doesn’t take a whole lot to find a balanced life. All it takes is just a few simple adjustments in how you spend your time. Making more time for friends, family, and loved ones, and removing negative influences can help you to stay more positive and grounded. Remembering to have fun, trying new things, and making time for yourself are extremely important, and can help you to have a new appreciation for life. Create these positive habits, and you’ll be well on your way to living a more balanced and fulfilled life!