Life is a Banana Leaf

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c/o Wallis Top (here) // Nordstrom Rack Pants (option) (option) // c/o Wallis Shoes (here) (option) // Target Bag (option) (option) // c/o Sophistifunk Bracelets (here) (here) // Forever 21 Bracelets (here) (option) // Forever 21 Glasses (option) // Maybelline Lip Color in Fuchsia Flash (here) // Sally Hansen Nail Color in White On (here)

Remember when I talked about "Anchoring Balance" a few months ago?

Well, I have been pushing myself to the limits, in a good way. I have almost, sort of, kind of, found that balance in my life. After I wrote that post, it really hit home on how I was spinning out of control. My stress level was at it's peak. I was stretching myself to be there for everyone and everything. Um, it's just not possible.

I am a mom, wife, daughter, sister, friend and blogger....that's a whole lot of peeps in my world. I thought I could stay connected with each aspect in my life on a daily basis. I felt like I HAD to stay connected. If not, I was failing as a person, neglecting people and things that mean the world to me.

Helllllllo???? McFly? We are human beings; not super heroes, even though I'd like to pretend I am Wonder Woman (see yesterday's post).

After hours of reflection, talks with Ross, conversations with my mom and prayers, I came to the conclusion that I really could have it all....in small doses. Life doesn't have to be bananas. It can be the swaying leaves of the banana tree. Like the ones on my Wallis top. I couldn't resist this analogy. Doesn't that seem more pleasant? Relaxing? Calming?

Here are my conclusions of trying to figure out a happy medium in our crazy, hectic lives.

1. It's okay for me to say no. Whether it's been social, professional, family/friend oriented or philanthropic. I have learned that people aren't going to be mad at me and I don't have to feel like I am missing out if I don't attend a certain something.

2. Ross and I have taken take time for each other. Alone. No kids. No friends. Just us. It's really helped us to reconnect and talk intimately without any interruptions.

3. I stepped back from trying to respond to every comment, email or request that relates to blogging. At the end of the day, I started this blog for me. I have been blessed enough for it to turn into a part time job and a fun hobby, but decided that it will not ever be a full time "job".

4. Take my kids on dates. Just us girls. Again, no friends or even dad. It's a perfect time for bonding and to be 100% focused on them. We also do things as a family of four, whether it's dinner, bowling, swimming or watching Duck Dynasty on the couch. We make a point to do some sort of activity at least once a week...together.

5. When I get upset, hurt or stressed, I stop and ask myself, "Will this matter in five years?" If the answer is "no", I move on and let it go.

6. I once heard in a church sermon the most perfect quote, "What other people think of me is none of my business." How true is that? I had to stop worrying about being judged or trying to be something I am not. The people close to me know who I am and I cannot worry about the perspectives others believe to be true about my life.

7. I embrace my time with friends. I am lucky enough to have different sets of social circles. It can be hard to figure out how to keep our relationships active because we are all so busy. I have made it a goal to stay in contact with the majority of them at least once a month, even if it's just a quick dinner, phone chat or text message. Life would be empty without my ladies.

8. Spending quality time alone was something I wasn't doing enough of. I was either with my kids, with Ross, with Ross and the kids, playing with friends/family or blogging. I started to hang out with myself more. Whether it was a half day of window shopping, getting a pedicure, sitting on the back porch after everyone was asleep or simply seeing a movie alone. It's good for the soul. It builds independence, confidence and is a good reminder that being by yourself is absolutely okay.

I probably could keep my list running, but I know I only have your attention for a little bit longer. In a nutshell, the past several months have been eye opening. I have made a conscious effort to balance out my life and I have noticed a world of difference in my spirit.

We all want to have it all. Do it all. Keep up with the Jones', if you will. If you don't take a step back, refocus on what's important, make time for the priorities, we are all doomed for failure....at least the feeling of personal failure.

What are some things that you do to keep it even keel in your world? I am sure everyone would love some added advice. I know I would.

And guess, what? There is actually a show dedicated to this entire post. No, I am not starring in it, but two famous twins are. Remember Tia & Tamera from "Sister, Sister"? Yeah, back in the 90's.

Well, Tia & Tamera have a new show on the Style Network documenting the same struggles you and I deal with, just on camera. Almost every woman will relate to this show and should share in the journey of the struggles we all have as women regardless of our age and season. Make sure to tune in for the Tia & Tamera Season 3 premier on Sunday, July 14th at 8/7C on Style.

YOU WILL WANT TO READ THIS PART...
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CONTEST DETAILS:

1. FOLLOW @Celebuzz and @TheStyleNetwork on Instagram

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3. Don’t forget to SHARE your pic on Twitter. (It’s not a requirement, but a fun way to share!)

4. Now you’re entered for a chance to WIN a $2,000 shopping spree to share with your other half!

So start taking those photos and get them uploaded to Instagram. I can't wait to see who your "You & I" are. Good luck!

Thank you Style Network for sponsoring this post. All opinions and content are 100% my own.