Research and Evaluation Consulting Maryland

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Finding Balance: Why you’re craving connection, rest, and balance

Every day feels the same. 

You get ready for work, look around your home, and notice last night’s dinner dishes on the counter, you rush out the door and mentally add “tidy up” to your running to-do list in your head. You get to work where you answer emails and phone calls, attend meetings that could’ve been an email or phone call, and make small talk with co-workers. 

After work, you stop at the grocery store on the way home.

You rush through the store, knowing you’ll inevitably forget something.

When you get home you unload the car, clear the dishes, make dinner, and plop down on the couch to mindlessly scroll your phone. 

That gnawing session of is there anything something I’m missing eats away at you as you see people you don’t know traveling the world, people you do know making big announcements, and brands trying to sell you things you don’t need.

Is there something I’m missing?

There is.

It’s connection, rest, and balance.

You’re missing out on things in your life that fill you up and give you joy

Why do you crave connection, rest, and balance?

I often hear women say that they’re just so tired and that they wish they had time to do the things that they loved.

Whether or not you completely relate to the scenario above, it’s likely that at least parts of it resonated with you.

We live in a world where we’re constantly surrounded by other people’s highlight reels, the constant pressure to be the best, and the demands of everyday life.

These things influence our daily lives and leave us feeling disconnected from those around us, and out of balance with ourselves and the world.

I understand that you’re craving connection to people who are experiencing similar things in life. I recognize that you need rest, and haven’t felt well-rested since who knows when. I also can see how life can quickly become unbalanced, leaving you with no time or energy to fill yourself with the things that leave you feeling like the best version of yourself.

You’re feeling all of these because that’s just the world we live in.

But, you don’t need to worry.

Just because it’s the world we live in, doesn’t mean that there’s nothing we can do about it. 

When you are connected to yourself, you develop a beautiful understanding of what makes you tick, what you need in life, and what your goals are. 

If you’re not sure where to start, I recommend learning more about meditation and how it can help you build a connection with your inner self. 

Your personal connection will help you prioritize making connections with the people in your life who matter most. 

When you only do what you’re required to do, you’re able to find a balance in your life that leaves you feeling fulfilled and excited about life again. 

In other words, set boundaries with the things in your life that are throwing off your scale. Say “no” to the person who is draining your energy, only work the hours at your job that you have to work, and make time to do the things you love. 

You are allowed to prioritize yourself.

How can I find rest?

What do you like to do?

Okay, I know this question sounds odd when it comes to rest, but I want you to really think about it.

What are the things that leave you feeling energized? 

For some people, this is going to be taking a nap, but for others, it may look like getting apps with your close friend.

Rest isn’t only related to the amount of sleep you get each night (though sleep is important!) it’s also about filling your time with things that leave you energized.

You may find an intentional vacation restful, or breathwork

How you rest is up to you. 

What’s important, is that you’re able to prioritize your form of rest to ensure that you’re avoiding burnout, and taking the time you need in life. 

Concluding thoughts.

I recognize that some of these things are easier said than done.

I know how hard it can be to reframe your mindset around your life and prioritize your needs.

But I also know how rewarding it is. I know that when you put yourself first, your whole life can change. You can find purpose and excitement in everyday life. You don’t need to live for the weekends. You can find rest, you can find balance, and you can find connection with yourself and those around you. 

I hope you find what you need.