Finding Balance: 3 Essential Tips to Prevent Over Scheduling Yourself

Today, we're diving into the all-too-familiar feeling of being overbooked and overwhelmed, especially after treatment has ended. 

If your calendar is bursting at the seams with Doctor’s appointments, getting back into work, the gym…LIFE and you're struggling to carve out time for yourself, this one's for you. 

Let's talk about how to reclaim your time and prioritize your well-being, so that you can get your energy back!

1. Let Go of What’s Not Yours to Worry About

First things first, take a deep breath and hit the pause button. Reflect on your schedule and ask yourself: "What isn’t mine to worry about?" Often, we carry burdens that aren't ours to bear, adding unnecessary stress. Identify what you can delegate or simply let go. Remember, it's not just about physical tasks; the mental and emotional load counts too. Freeing up this space can lighten your load significantly.

2. Make Yourself a Priority on Your Calendar

Now, grab your calendar and review it. Just like you schedule doctor's appointments or meetings, block out time for yourself. Yes, you heard that right—schedule *you* time. Whether it’s for a morning walk, meditation, or just a quiet cup of tea, make sure it’s on there. Personally, I reserve my mornings until 8 AM for movement, meditation, and intention-setting. It’s my non-negotiable time to prepare for the day ahead. Remember, without you being strong and healthy, everything else can quickly fall apart.

3. Master Your Schedule with Time Blocking

Finally, consider adopting time blocking to structure your days better. This technique can help you focus your energy and reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed. For example, I block out specific times for administrative tasks, recording sessions, and even transition periods like having a cup of tea before starting dinner prep. By assigning certain tasks to specific times or days, you remove the guesswork and the constant mental chatter of “What should I do next?”

I used to struggle with the blur between work and home life, especially since I work from home. Implementing transition times and clear boundaries between tasks has been a game-changer. It helps me stay productive and keeps my energy levels balanced.

A Gentle Reminder

Don’t forget, it’s okay to say no. Setting boundaries is a powerful act of self-care. If something doesn’t align with your intention for the day, or if it feels like too much, it’s perfectly fine to decline or reschedule.

I hope these tips help you manage the overwhelm and create a more balanced life. Remember, you are the most important person in your life. Without your well-being, everything else can quickly crumble.

For more tips on building resilient routines and making time for self-care, download my free guide:

Thriving Beyond Treatment: Embrace These 6 Easy Habits for Post-Breast Cancer Wellness. 

It’s designed to help you integrate small but impactful habits into your daily life.

Stay strong and take good care of yourself. You deserve it!