10 ways to create balance in your life when you need it most

6. Explore and unplug

Take a walk around the block. Step outside, breathe some fresh air, and disconnect from reality and technology for a while.

Even five minutes unplugged can do wonders for your brain productivity because overstimulation isn’t good for anyone.

Moderation is key. Give yourself the time to recuperate so you can come back refreshed and ready to tackle your day.

Step away from whatever is bothering you — it will still be there when you come back. You need to listen to yourself when it’s time to take a breather.

7. Just say ‘no’

Learn how to say no when it doesn’t serve you.

Set some boundaries and stop being so nice all the time. Saying no is a big way to lessen the pressure you put on yourself to please others around you.

Saying no to minor things can make the most significant difference. Something as small as choosing not to cook dinner can free up hours that you could use for extra work that needs to be done or self-care.

Learn how to let go of expectations you or others have for yourself and manage your time more efficiently.

8. Rest and rejuvenate

Resting is so important, and sleep isn’t the only thing that refuels your brain.

Relaxation puts you in a better mood and relieves stress and anxiety from everyday life. Take a nap in the middle of the day if that’s what you need to do. Meditate. Take a personal day. Do whatever you feel you need to do to avoid burning out.

Your brain registers tension from being overworked and tells you when you need to reel it in and dial it back. You go full throttle all the time without taking a break. Your mind will thank you for it.

9. See friendly faces

It’s so important to make time for those you love.

Working provides many personal benefits, but it can be a bit isolating. Take time to visit friends that are co-workers outside of the workplace.

Surrounding yourself with people who uplift and support you is good for your mental health and makes life easier.

Build a solid support group of friends and family that will pick you up when you’re down, and be sure to do the same for them in return.

Put yourself out there if you feel like an area of your life could benefit from gaining a new friend with similar interests. You might be surprised how fast you find one.

10. Set some goals

Take time to set goals for yourself if you haven’t already.

Be realistic, make sure they are attainable and achievable, and give yourself a timeline. Start with short-term goals and then move on to long-term objectives you’d like to achieve down the road.

Goals don’t have to be some elaborate lifelong dream you’ve wanted since you were a child. Start simple, like washing the dishes tomorrow on your lunch break.

Once you accomplish something, do a happy dance, celebrate your accomplishments and then set the next one.

Having something to work toward gives you incentive and inspires growth.

Find your balance

It’s vital to find balance to avoid feeling overwhelmed and get more enjoyment out of life.

Use these tips to reach a state of equilibrium. You’ll reap the benefits by living all your days to the fullest, even if that means taking a guilt-free power nap or learning when to say no.