Happy New Year! I hope everyone’s year is off to an amazing start. 2024 was filled with new beginnings for my husband and I. We moved into our new home, started new hobbies, and dived deeper into our new relationship with Christ. At the beginning of the new school year my principal challenged the staff to choose a word that would represent them this year. I choose the word BALANCE and I’ve been seeking it ever since.
What is Balance?
When used as a verb, balance means to keep or put something in a steady position so it does not fall. I would say that we seek balance for the everyday things we juggle. I am successful at balancing my teacher duties, but I found that I wasn’t putting the same amount of effort and planning into my household responsibilities and hobbies. I chose this word to remind me to also focus on my personal goals.
For too long, I found myself giving so much to my role as a teacher that I didn’t leave enough space for other parts of my life. This year, I made an intentional effort to plan time for the things that bring me joy—whether that was spending time in the garden, trying a new recipe, or simply enjoying quiet moments at home. It wasn’t always easy, but each step toward balance brought me closer to a more fulfilling life.
As I reflected on my journey, I realized that balance doesn’t mean giving every area of life the same amount of time. Instead, it’s about being present in the moment and adjusting as needed—sometimes leaning into work, sometimes leaning into rest. It’s a dance, not a destination.
Pursuing Balance
As we step into a new year, I’m reflecting on my journey with the word “balance” and how it has shaped my life. Seeking balance isn’t about perfection or giving equal attention to everything—it’s about being intentional, present, and flexible as life shifts. If you’re looking to bring more steadiness and fulfillment into your life, here are 10 simple ways to pursue balance in the year ahead.
1. Prioritize Time with God
• Set aside daily quiet time for prayer and Bible study.
• Choose Bible verses or devotionals that focus on balance.
2. Establish Routines for Work-Life Balance
• Set boundaries for when work ends and personal time begins.
• Use planning tools to organize tasks and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
3. Make Space for Your Hobbies
• Schedule time each week for gardening, cooking, or other activities that bring you joy.
• Try one new hobby or skill this year that you’ve been curious about.
4. Create Intentional Family Time
• Plan a weekly or monthly family activity, such as a game night or outdoor adventure.
• Schedule regular date nights or quality time with your spouse.
5. Focus on Health and Well-Being
• Develop a balanced routine for physical activity, such as daily walks or yoga.
• Prepare healthy meals that nourish both your body and soul.
6. Organize Your Home for Simplicity
• Tackle one decluttering project each month to make your home feel more peaceful.
• Set up systems to make household chores more manageable and efficient.
7. Set Realistic Goals
• Choose one or two goals for each area of your life (faith, family, work, hobbies) and work on them consistently.
• Celebrate small wins to stay motivated.
8. Practice Rest and Reflection
• Build regular rest days or evenings into your schedule.
• Keep a journal to reflect on your progress and areas for improvement.
9. Connect with Your Community
Join a small group or ministry at your church.
Make time for meaningful conversations and connections with friends and neighbors.
10. Give Yourself Grace
• Accept that balance doesn’t mean perfection—it’s okay to adjust and reassess.
• Remind yourself that small, intentional steps add up over time.
As I move forward into this new year, I’m reminded that balance is not something you find once and keep forever—it’s something you choose every day. By focusing on these small, intentional steps, I’m creating space for the things that matter most: faith, family, personal growth, and the simple joys that make life meaningful. Choosing balance is my way of living with purpose and joy, even when life feels busy or uncertain. My hope is that these choices will not only bring me peace but also inspire others to pursue their own version of a balanced and fulfilling life.
Thanks for stopping by!
