Monday, October 29, 2007

FINDING BALANCE- Checking In On My Goals!

Bert often tells me that I have two speeds: full speed ahead and stop dead! I tend to live my life, as one dear friend told me, "shot out of a cannon!" Even at 60, I have tons of energy and get lots accomplished. However this morning, as I looked at my work and personal calendar, I found a notation that I had made at the end of August. It was a "note to myself" of sorts.

The notation said, "Is your life still balanced?" "Are you taking time for what really matters?"

I wrote this "note to myself" at the end of a glorious summer! I had time to breathe and time to spend with those I love. While life was very busy...it wasn't rushed. Once school starts and 93 students join the parade...consulting clients want more time...workshops begin...and the holidays loom...well it's easy to lose balance!

I know when I feel balanced because I feel happy and peaceful inside!

And on top of all the usual time consumers...I have added "get a healthy lifestyle, exercise and Weight Watchers" to the list!

I went to a church retreat recently with Amy. The speaker said, "I could look at your calendar and checkbook and I would know what your priorities are!" That really stuck with me. I want to be aware of where I am, how I am feeling, what my priorities are, and what I need to do to be balanced. I don't want God to feel like a PS in my life!

So today I am taking time to breathe, to blog, to hug my husband, to drink (and taste) my coffee, to touch the leaves, to remember what I love about fall, and to thank God for the gift of being alive!

Today I want to simply be grateful for it all! I want to slow down long enough to FEEL the gratitude and appreciate and work toward "balance" in my life!

God Bless! Love and hugs to all who read this! Love Linda

5 comments:

The Farrell Family said...

I've been thinking about priorities and balance in my life too! With four children now, I'm trying to meet the needs of a full household, yet still try to make time for my husband and I, as well as time for me. Where Ryan and I used to have "date night" once a week... we're greatful for once a month. I've been consciously trying to schedule in time for US. It is important and necessary... for everyone. Ryan likes the saying, "When Mama is happy, everybody is happy!"

I'll pray for your continued search for balance.

Love, me

Anonymous said...

We all need balance in our lives. That is so true! I think it's great that you are balancing your life and priorities!



Love,
Kayla

jessithompson said...

Great post and one that is near and dear to my heart. It's hard for passionate people to be balanced... it's something I am working on too. thanks for sharing. i love you!

Tiffany said...

Linda,

I LOVE the idea of writing notes to your future self. What a great idea. I'm feeling the same way as you lately, trying to balance a busy school year with the rest of my life. I think it's hardest for teachers this time of year. I love this post. What a great reminder to stop and smell the roses! Thanks for sharing!

LORIE said...

Linda:

I have always said that I live my life the way I drive. . . .on the gas or on the brakes! (Mark would agree). Sounds like you do too.

About 10 years I ago, I removed my watch from my wrist, knowing I was living too much by time. . . my next appointment, etc. So now I am aware of time by not handcuffed to it.

I also quite using an alarm clock. I have trained my mind to wake me up when I need. Those two things have changed my life.

Also, living in the present, enjoying today is difficult--especially in our lifestyles today. The Dali Lama says that every morning we have 24 BRAND NEW HOURS! I love this because it focuses on today. For people who are working on living in the present, acknowledging our breathe is a smimple exercise we can do to realize the moment. As we inhale and exhale, we say . . . in. . . out. It helps us train our minds to focus on the present.

Thank you for your thoughts and passion for life and living it to its fullest. . . .while staying present and balanced.

Inhale. . . . . . . . . . .exhale. . . . .. . in. . . . . .out. . . . . .

L.

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