Sometimes we have so much going on, between work obligations, family, kids and errands, that by the end of the day it is easy to feel depleted and hopeless. However frustrating it may feel, you still need to find a way to make everything work. Work, family, kids, responsibilities, and so forth are not going to magically disappear, nor would you want it to, so it is important to find a way to balance everything with a touch of grace. Sometimes it is important to view things from a larger perspective. Let's take for an example an owner of a very successful restaraunt. Is it successful because he does everthing on his own? Of course not. He surrounds himself by people such as chefs, hostesses, waiters, managers, bus boys and so forth. He is able to delegate and trust that everyone will pitch in and keep things afloat. He also takes time off to relax and rejuvenate so that he can continue running things so smoothly.  Being able to delegate and shift our expectations will over time help you navigate through life so much smoother.  Maybe that means hiring a housekeeper once a month to do the deep cleaning. Maybe it is swapping childcare with a friend in order to get some errands run. Possibly that means letting go of guilt with feeling like you have to prepare homemade healthy meals every evening.  Being able to adjust your life in a way that ultimately makes things easier is important. Sometimes just letting go of high expectations will  help as well. I used to think that I needed to prepare meals every evening for my family, after a full day of work and kids. This was unrealistic and causing me undo stress. Now I am ok with ordering in every now and then or having taco night with leftovers. My kids are happy and healthy and I am more present with them. This week take a look at your own life and figure out where you can make some minor adjustments.

 

 

    Where in your own life can you delegate some of the responsibilities? Can you ask a friend to carpool to after school activities? Can you ask a spouse to prepare meals a couple nights a week? Can you hire a part time housekeeper? Asking for help is the first step in freeing up some of your time, while allowing you to spend it on things that have more value.

 

    I have always had a knack for looking at life a little differently than others. I have always tried to put things in perspective. When things don't go as expected, I assume there is a reason why. I don't stress over trivial things, for I believe it is a waste of time and energy. Try shifting your perspective this week by looking at things from a different vantage point.

 

    It is important to take a look at the expectations you hold for yourself. Do you act as if you can do everything for everyone? Do you try to be superwoman or superman at times? Sometimes it is important to let yourself off the hook and know that you are doing your best. It is ok to let some things go and nurture yourself and your time.