Every time I get overwhelmed by doubts and worries, it reminds me of how fragile we think we are. It’s so easy to get stressed and to get pulled out of balance.

Finding balance is something I’ve been struggling with for as long as I can remember. Every setback and every problem comes down to balance. When we’re not balanced in giving and taking, we don’t feel satisfied. When we’re not balanced in working and playing, we lose our energy. When we don’t eat balanced, our bodies simply say ‘no’.

What do we need to stay balanced?

Step 1: Find out what is important to you

First of all, we need to know what is truly, truly important to us.

For example, I thought that I wanted to have a good job, look professional, have a pretty house, have a fancy car, go to fancy restaurants and more things that, at the end of the day, don’t really matter. Materialistic ‘happiness’ usually lasts a few days. Real happiness comes from a different place.

I asked myself: What makes me cry tears of happiness?

The list was surprisingly short…

Here it goes:

– sunlight

– feeling the breeze on my skin

– nature and plants

– the ocean, the sea or a lake 

– a good cup of coffee

– my significant other when I see his eyes light up

If you want to find long lasting happiness, find out what makes you cry tears of happiness!

Step 2: Find your inner wisdom

It’s easy to get influenced by other people, whether they are our family and friends or people we see on social media. We feel pressure from outside when others expect us to do things. At the end of the day, it’s easy to forget that these are things that we don’t really want. They are simply things other people want for us.

So, after you find out what is important to you (see step 1), it’s time to stay true to yourself. It’s time to set boundaries and energetically let others know that their wishes for your life are simply their wishes. You don’t have any obligation to listen to them. You don’t have to explain yourself to anyone. You are free to make choices that seem ridiculous to others. You are also free to make ‘mistakes’ because they provide you with experience and wisdom.

Listen to your heart and do what feels good to you (not what feels good to someone else).

Step 3: Get ‘lost’ and see where the current may take you

Walk your very own soul path. Dare to get lost, because we can find nice surprises in unexpected places. Dare to do something that you have never done before because this is where life gets interesting! Simply enjoy life and be proud of who you are. You have a purpose on this planet. You are unique and the world needs your talents. Keep your energy high and trust that good things are coming.

In spontaneity, we can find balance again. It’s easy to get stuck in habits and create a routine, but this does not lead to joy and creativity. Doing the same thing over and over again can make you feel tired and bored. Try doing something new or learning something new every single day. 

And don’t forget: Enjoy the journey we call life and simply be yourself!