Juggling Too Much?

By participating in spiritually engaging activities, simplifying schedules, and centering on Jesus Christ, we can find balance in our hectic lives.

E. Jeffrey Hill, associate professor in the School of Family Life at Brigham Young University, says that whether we have classes, work, Church callings, or family obligations, too many responsibilities can make our lives overwhelming. Each day may feel like a juggling act. So how can we find harmony in the day-to-day struggles? There is no simple solution to all of life’s dilemmas. But before throwing all the juggling balls in the air and giving up, consider these suggestions for finding balance.

1. Participate in spiritually engaging activities
   When we are exhausted from our busy schedules, we can still enjoy each day by participating in engaging activities. We can bring the Spirit into our lives by communicating with our Heavenly Father through praying or by listening to soothing music. Short naps, moments of reflection, or general conference talks can also bring us more energy and motivation throughout the day.
2. Simplify schedules
   When taking on additional responsibilities, let’s remember our limits and choose only the activities that are most important to our spiritual or physical well-being. Brother Hill states, “Sometimes as we seek to please and help those around us, we agree to do too many things and neglect the activities that are the most important.” As we seek to do good, let’s prioritize or combine activities. For example, we could listen to the scriptures while walking to class.
3. Center on Jesus Christ
   The only true way to find harmony is to center our lives on Jesus Christ. Drawing closer to the Lord gives us the faith and endurance we need to continue with our hectic lives. President Howard W. Hunter taught, “Life presents many challenges, but with the help of the Lord, we need not fear. If our lives and our faith are centered on Jesus Christ and his restored gospel, nothing can ever go permanently wrong.”

Read E. Jeffrey Hill’s full article, “Finding Life Harmony as We Struggle to Juggle.”

Source: Ensign

— Kimberly Austin, Mormon Insights