“Can you have it all?” “In need of life hacks?” We understand how busy life gets between friends and zoom meetings, workouts, trying the latest beauty trends, quality (social distancing) time, or showing your fur-baby some love. However, creating a few small daily or weekly changes can get you on the path to a more balanced life. And while we can’t give you the magical solution to the perfect balance, we CAN provide a few pointers to make the balancing act a bit easier.

I present to you, my top ten life hacks for busy people. 

Tip #1. STOP with the comparisons.

We’re saying this nicely (I promise); it’s natural to compare the smallest parts of your life to what someone else has going on. Have you found yourself envying a friend that wakes up bright and early every weekend while you’re still in bed trying to find a mustard seed of energy to get up and going? Don’t compare; find what works for you, like a morning in-bed meditation to get things slowly but surely moving.

Tip #2. Routine, routine, routine. 

Hey, we know this one doesn’t sound glamorous, but it may do the job. Sometimes the trick to getting something done is by merely doing. Fitting a routine into an existing schedule seems to work better than creating a whole new plan for one task. For example, if you know you fall asleep around ten o’clock before completing your nightly skincare, set a reminder an hour before bedtime, giving your skin a little TLC before your beauty sleep.

Tip #3. Be mindful of moderation.

“Okay, just one more episode…” How many times have you said that before finding yourself watching the last episode of season two and not meal prepping as you planned? Ask yourself if one thing you love is interrupting other goals you may have. Make room for different parts of your life by enjoying a little of what you love in moderation.

Tip #4. Do what works.

You may not have the time to make those fancy colorful smoothies you see on Pinterest, BUT you may have time to make a quick two ingredient smoothie that gets the job done. Things probably won’t be picture perfect all of the time, but simplicity comes easy. 

Tip #5. Do what’s required. 

Some days, doing the minimum is enough, and that’s okay! Really! If you clean the entire house when you prefer to rest, no one will judge you for not folding the clothes immediately after unloading the dryer. We’ve checked, and unfolded laundry isn’t on our list of Earth-shattering news.

Tip #6. Give yourself a break.

If you’re busy, chances are you’re out in the world doing some pretty amazing things, but even superheroes need an off day. Take some time to recharge, even if it’s only for a half-day. Spend some time watching a movie, take a nice long bath, or treat yourself to a DIY spa day. You can’t fly without any fuel that helps anyone, especially you.

Tip #7. Get support 

One of my favorite quotes is, “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.” – African Proverb. 

Sure accomplishing things alone feels great, but sometimes having others to lean on is astonishing. Support can come in the form of family babysitting or running small errands for you when you can’t seem to find the time. It can also appear online in the form of communities or groups. Sometimes doing it all alone isn’t the best answer.

Tip #8. Fuel Food 

Now, this is something I swear by. I try to avoid the terms “Good Food vs. Bad Food” because any food my tastebuds love is good food…but I digress. Our bodies are smart and need the proper fuel to keep going and while having a whole sleeve of Oreos sounds ideal, we know they aren’t going to keep us satisfied for long. Eating fuller, well-balanced snacks and meals gives us the fuel we need, stops us from eating low-fuel foods, and keeps us focused, giving us a better body and mind. 

Tip #9. Adults Naps

Some adults can learn from children, such as having a midday nap to recharge and shift the mood. There are no special steps required for this one, but some calming sounds and your best blanket may help. So, if you can find the time, take advantage of getting a good nap.

Tip #10. Remember, you are human. 

To be a human is to be with some error. We all have our mistakes, failures, and not-so-stellar moments. The key is to remember that you aren’t alone. So, don’t be so hard on yourself because what you don’t know, you can learn, and what you may not have time for today and tomorrow. We hope you always find time to be kind to yourself and remember that life’s perfect balance is the one that works for you.