Finding Balance - Valuable Tips For The Stressed and Busy

By Elizabeth Scott, M.S., About.com Guide

Updated May 14, 2011

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Sometimes things need to be done with precision and perfection, but more often, they don’t. Although the Martha Stewart types may be quick to point out how special things are when you go the extra mile, and how attention to detail makes all the difference, this type of thinking can also lead to perfectionism, stress, and a lack of balance. If you find yourself already too busy, you may really benefit from giving yourself a break. Take shortcuts, if the end result is still adequate. (Will your guests really care if you used a traditional mop on the floor, or quickly went over it with a Swiffer? Won’t store-bought cupcakes still taste as great for the office party or class picnic?) Live by the 80-20 rule, where you identify the 20% of work that yields 80% of the results, and focus mainly on what’s important, letting the rest slip if necessary. Remember, sometimes focusing on perfection isn’t as important as focusing on speed, especially when you’re looking for balance in your schedule.

Previous

• Finding Balance - Vital For Women (And Men!)
• De-Clutter Your Life
• Remember The Trade-Offs
• Delegate Like A Pro
• Do A Good Enough Job
• Live In The Now, But Keep The Future In Mind
• Stay Organized
• Consult Your Inner Child

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