The thing we all want to do, but also don’t want to –get it together. This requires a different type of honesty, a deep dig into what is holding us back. Ultimately, we’ll need to figure out how to overcome it to make any ground. I know it’s hard to truly help others if I’m not in a good place myself, and if I’m being honest, where I’m at is on a rollercoaster that changes by the day.

So how can we find balance between our individual goals and the pressure to be constantly supportive and present for the things that need us?

I think back to a saying that goes something like – no one will be more disappointed than you if you don’t work towards your dreams. The hard truth is that there will always be slip ups, things that get put on the back burner, and people who don’t see our passions or appreciate them. Since we know we can’t give every aspect of our life 100% everyday, it’s time to prioritize. I have a large list of things that deserve an upgrade, so I know how tough it is narrowing it down. But if you don’t pick something the list will only grow, so make a goal, write it down, and stick to it like glue. Maybe it seems rigid, but if you’re a procrastinator like me, staying consistent with yourself, knowing you can count on you, is a game changer. Whatever it takes. Making strict deadlines and keeping to them builds trust within myself, and that’s the key. I can write down all these pretty to-do’s in a planner, but if I don’t hold myself to them, it becomes easier and easier for me to flake. The happiness of accomplishment anywhere will trickle down into other aspects of life. Once you’ve proved you’re accountable, you have the confidence to move forward to the next goal. So my #1 right now is to stay motivated. When I’m free but feeling like laying in bed and shutting out the world, I get up, take a shower, and go act like the motivated me until I’m living it. -This is not a foolproof plan, we are not machines that are built to fulfill self-made orders. We all deserve time to decompress, but acting like how you want to feel can really help you switch your mindset when you want it.

There’s science that backs up making yourself smile releases molecules in your brain that can improve your mood (So don’t smile because some creep says you’ll look prettier. Smile to yourself because you’re releasing an army of endorphins that will help you conquer the world). All it takes is a little spark (or neurochemicals) to get your fire lit and engines running. Soon enough you’ll be back on track, headed where you want to be.