I am constantly analyzing my life and how I can be better at everything I do.  I find that it helps to have an action plan in place.  If I can set monthly, weekly and daily goals, I am often more successful at what I do. 

I have also made a excellent, good and horrible list to take the pressure of myself in some areas.  I think as mothers we believe we have to be good at everything and this is just untrue.  My excellent list: being a mom, decorating, creativity, etc.  My good list: cleaning, being timely, dinner, etc.  My horrible list: Getting out stains, sewing, etc.  That way I know I don't have to be good at getting out stains.  I focus on what I'm good and excellent at and just do the best I can with my horrible things.  Make sense?

I love using lists. They are great tools and help me to stay organized.

I keep a journal--a handwritten journal of my life.  I've been doing this since I was pregnant with my oldest child. 

Writing a journal is very different that keeping one online aka blogging.  My journal is personal and private and it tells a story.  My story.  My story that someday my children will have to read. 

I also have a yoga practice to keep me balanced.  We just moved to an area with no yoga studio close by so I have wii on my Christmas list :)

I have no balance I need to follow this discussion closely.  Thanks for the ideas!!

I've always wanted to try yoga. Keeping a journal is a great idea!

Cascia,

Yoga is one of the top best things I've ever done for myself. Ica't encourage yo enough to give it a try and begin a practice.  You can try it one your own athome with a dvd, or go the YMCA or community center and join a class. 

I would recommend a class so you can get hings going and develop an understanding of Yoga and what you want out of it.

Exercise and a healthy balanced diet is at the top of my list. I work hard during the week and then I take weekends off to enjoy with my kids and to pursue my own interests and hobbies.

Thanks for your replies!

I do my best to follow the Greek Motto "Know Thyself and Nothing in Excess." So The Balance is staying acquainted with the everchanging me through exercise, prayer, honesty, writing, family, playtime, and vino as needed...but nothing in excess.

A friend once told me about her "Pie of Happiness" :) Picture a circle, cut into 5 equal wedges. You have to have balance in each wedge to be whole and have true happiness. They are 1- Physical Health 2- Spiritual health 3- Friend/family relations, 4- Intellectual stimulation (learning something new, or doing something mentally challenging) 5- Financial balance. Every so often I take a look at my life and see which "wedges" I am lacking in and think of things I could do to improve in those areas.