Article: This may seem odd at first to actually block out time to not do anything, but it will help make sure you actually take a break. Set an alarm if you have to that reminds you that the break time is coming up and take the break when it comes up. Do not put it off—make it fit into your schedule to give yourself time to “reboot”.  Taking a break means physically walking away from your desk to stretch your legs or get a change of scenery. It also means unplugging from checking work emails or taking calls. Schedule breaks at home, too, during times you can truly get alone time. Taking a break while the kids do homework or asking your partner to attend one sports practice each week to give you a break are both examples of at-home breaks. Finding balance isn’t the end result, but an on-going process. Doing everything yourself can seem like the fastest way to get things done, but it often means you are not doing what you are best at. Focus your efforts on the parts of work and home that you do best and then delegate out the tasks others can handle.  You will find over time that those around you get used to the routine tasks you ask them to handle and you no longer need to spend the extra time teaching them how to help. A short-term investment in teaching them how to help will pay off in the long run. Use technology and services in your area to handle errands you see as being a hassle. Have groceries delivered to the home instead of wasting time grocery shopping. Look into dry cleaners that pick up and drop off at work. Look at each step to see what needs to be done, why it matters and how you can work to accomplish the most important goals. Defining the smaller tasks will also give you a road map of things you can delegate out. It also helps you uncover which steps need your talents. Combine your talents with the resources around you to get the job done. When you break down a big project into manageable tasks, celebrate the completion of each task. This will help you to not become overwhelmed by the bigger project. Celebrating small wins also boosts morale. This includes times you are just over-extended or things that are emotionally draining. Look at the overall schedule for your family or household to see where you can cut back as well. Many kids end up in three different sports, clubs, dance, band, scouts or a host of other activities. Focus on one or two they really like and free up your extra time to enjoy family. Being roped into making 60 cupcakes for tomorrow’s bake sale at school is an example of something you may feel obligated to do. In reality, you can simply buy some from the bakery if it’s not something you enjoy doing. Saying no is healthy and should not be seen as a negative. No doesn’t always mean you are not interested or capable. It can mean you just simply do not have the time or the request doesn’t serve you. Be honest and open about why you are saying no. You will find people respect that more than having you say yes and not being able to complete something.  Try pairing the “no” with a qualifier if you are worried about ruffling feathers. If you are asked to volunteer at the Book Fair at the kids’ school, simply tell them you are already committed to another activity but would make a cash donation towards the fundraiser. Saying no to small things that do not fit into your priorities or bigger goals can allow you to say yes to the more important things.

What is a summary?
Schedule in down-time and breaks. Be willing to delegate tasks to others around you. Break large projects down into several smaller tasks. Review your schedule and remove any activities that drain you. Learn when and how to say “no”.