16 Valuable Examples I Used To Improve Life Balance
Discover the journey to achieving life harmony through practical steps and personal insights. Learn how embracing the principles of ikigai and the Blue Zone models can transform your health, relationships, and work for a balanced and fulfilling life.
Right now, I feel a sense of life harmony and good vibes. My health is thriving, my work is fulfilling, and my personal life is brimming with joy. This equilibrium didn’t come overnight; it took dedication, strategic planning, and a willingness to adapt. But let me tell you, it’s worth every ounce of effort.
The Frameworks That Guided Me
Finding balance in life can often feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. For me, the principles of ikigai and the Blue Zone models served as guiding lights. These philosophies provided a structured approach to crafting a life of purpose, health, and happiness. Over three transformative months, I implemented these practices, now the foundation of my daily routine.
Mike Parsons
My Daily Rituals
Nutrition and Sleep
The first significant changes I made were to my diet and sleep patterns. These aspects are often overlooked but are fundamental to maintaining energy and clarity throughout the day. Focusing on what and when I eat and ensuring I get restful sleep, I set the stage for a productive and harmonious day.
1. Two Meals a Day: I switched to having two meals daily, focusing primarily on a paleo diet.
2. Limited Alcohol: I allow myself one glass of alcohol per week, savoring it as a treat rather than a habit.
3. Consistent Sleep Schedule: I’m in bed by 10 PM and up by 6:30 AM.
4. Pre-Sleep Routine: I’ve established a no-feed zone three hours before bed, avoid liquids two hours prior, and turn off screens an hour before sleep.
“Harmony in life isn’t a destination but a continuous journey of small, mindful steps that align with your true self.”
Physical Activity
Staying physically active is a cornerstone of my health and well-being. Regular exercise not only keeps my body in shape but also enhances my mental clarity and emotional stability. Incorporating physical activity into my routine has been a game-changer, and I look forward to it every day.
5. Regular Exercise: I walk and run 40 kilometers weekly, ensuring ample time outdoors.
Nurturing Relationships
Friends and Family
Strong relationships are the bedrock of a happy life. Making time for friends and family keeps me grounded and provides emotional support. Whether it’s a weekly chat or a family dinner, these connections are essential for maintaining balance.
6. Weekly Friend Check-ins: I reach out to friends weekly.
7. Weekly Call with Mum: I have a standing call with my mum every week.
8. Sunday Family Roast: Sundays are sacred; I enjoy roast dinners with my wife and son, creating cherished memories together.
Mike Parsons
Mindfulness Practices
Mindfulness has been pivotal in my journey toward harmony. These practices help me stay present, reduce stress, and enhance my well-being. Journaling and these daily rituals keep me centered and focused.
9. Stretching and Yoga: I dedicate time each day to stretching and yoga, practicing six days a week.
10. Coherent Breathing and Meditation: These practices help me stay centered.
11. Daily Journaling: This allows me to reflect and grow.
12. Phone Detox: I consciously put down my phone, reducing distractions and being more present.
Professional Fulfillment
Focused Work
In my professional life, I’ve learned that quality trumps quantity. By focusing on fewer clients and projects that truly resonate with me, I’ve found greater satisfaction and effectiveness in my work. This approach enhances my productivity and allows me to pour more passion into each task.
13. Selective Clientele: I concentrate on fewer clients, ensuring a solid fit and mutual satisfaction.
14. Weekly Podcast: I collaborate with Mark on the Moonshots Podcast weekly, sharing inspiring stories and insights.
15. Skill Development: I create a new course for ApolloSkills weekly to hone my skills continuously.
16. Passion-Driven Work: Many aspects of my advisory work are so fulfilling that I’d gladly do them as a hobby or for charitable causes.
“True fulfillment comes from nurturing our health, relationships, and passions with intention and love.”
Resources for a Balanced Life
Books for the understanding of balance, purpose, and happiness
Throughout my journey, several books have provided invaluable insights and practical advice. These readings have helped shape my understanding of balance, purpose, and happiness, offering tools I’ve integrated into my daily life.
“The Balanced Life: Achieving Success in Work & Love” by Alan Loy McGinnis – McGinnis’ book is a masterclass in balancing professional success with personal happiness. It dives deep into the dynamics of maintaining harmony between work and relationships, offering actionable strategies and anecdotes. His approach emphasizes setting boundaries, managing time effectively, and nurturing relationships to achieve a well-rounded and fulfilling life.
“The Blue Zones of Happiness: Lessons from the World’s Happiest People” by Dan Buettner explores the world’s happiest communities and reveals powerful insights into the secrets of longevity and joy. By studying these Blue Zones, Buettner uncovers standard practices such as strong social connections, a sense of purpose, and healthy living that contribute to overall happiness. His findings encourage readers to adopt these habits to enhance well-being.
The Japanese Secret to a Long and Happy Life” by Hector Garcia and Francesc Miralles introduces the concept of ikigai, a Japanese term meaning “a reason for being.” Garcia and Miralles explain how finding one’s ikigai can lead to a longer, healthier, and more fulfilling life. They provide a step-by-step guide to discovering your ikigai, emphasizing the importance of pursuing what you love, what you are good at, what the world needs, and what you can be paid for.
Studies on balance and harmony
Delving into academic research has also deepened my understanding of balance and harmony. These studies provide evidence-based insights that reinforce the practices I’ve adopted, highlighting the universal relevance of these concepts.
“Life balance and harmony: Wellbeing’Wellbeing’sing by Tim Lomas (2021)
Lomas’ study in the International Journal of Wellbeing underscores the importance of balance and harmony for overall wellbeing. He defines wellbeing as “the longitudinal and dynamic attainment of optimal balance and harmony in any and all aspects of life.” The study organizes the literature into four main areas: affect, cognition, behavior, and self-other relations. Lomas argues that achieving balance and harmony across these dimensions is essential for long-term wellbeing. This comprehensive review offers a new perspective on attaining and maintaining wellbeing through balanced living. Read the study
“Insights from the First Global Survey of Balance and Harmony” from the World Happiness Report 2022
This chapter in the World Happiness Report presents findings from the first global survey on balance and harmony. The researchers explored how these concepts are experienced and valued across different cultures, revealing that balance and harmony are universally relevant, not confined to Eastern traditions.
The study highlights the relationship between life evaluation (measured by Cantril’s ladder) and various aspects of balance and harmony. The insights from this survey offer a broader understanding of how achieving balance and harmony can significantly impact life satisfaction worldwide. Read the report
Final Thoughts: continuous effort and adaptation
Achieving life harmony is an ongoing journey requiring continuous effort and adaptation. Yet, the rewards are profound: a calm mind, a confident demeanor, and a creative spirit. I hope my experiences inspire you to embark on your path to balance and harmony. Remember, every small step you take today brings you closer to a more fulfilling tomorrow.
Your Step-by-Step Guide to Life Harmony
1. Identify Your Core Values: Identify what truly matters to you. Reflect on your passions, skills, and the world's needs.
2. Set Clear Goals: Outline specific, achievable goals for your health, relationships, work, and personal growth. Make sure these goals align with your core values.
3. Create a Balanced Diet Plan: Plan your meals around a balanced diet that suits your lifestyle. Consider adopting aspects of the paleo diet and limiting alcohol consumption.
4. Establish a Consistent Sleep Routine: Develop a sleep schedule that ensures you get sufficient rest. Avoid eating, drinking, and screen time before bed to improve sleep quality.
5. Incorporate Regular Exercise: Choose and commit to physical activities you enjoy. Aim for a mix of cardio and strength training to keep your body and mind healthy.
6. Strengthen Relationships: Make time for friends and family. Schedule regular check-ins, calls, and family activities to maintain strong connections.
7. Practice Mindfulness: Integrate mindfulness practices like yoga, meditation, and journaling into your daily routine. These activities help reduce stress and improve focus.
8. Minimize Distractions: Reduce phone usage and other distractions that distract you from being present. Set specific times for checking messages and social media.
9. Focus on Meaningful Work: Identify work that aligns with your passions and values. Prioritize projects and clients that you find fulfilling and rewarding.
10. Invest in Personal Development: Continuously seek opportunities to learn and grow. Read books, take courses, and engage in activities that expand your skills and knowledge.
11. Review and Adjust: Review your progress regularly and make adjustments as needed. Stay flexible and open to changes that help you maintain balance and harmony.
By following these steps and customizing them to fit your unique life circumstances, you can create a path to more excellent balance and fulfillment. Remember, the life journey harmony is personal and ongoing—embrace it with patience and enthusiasm!