Trying to balance it all

Finding Balance as a Busy Woman in Your 40s: Prioritizing Yourself Without the Guilt

Life in your late 30's - 50s can feel like a constant juggling act. Between maintaining a home, growing your career, maybe caring for children, supporting a partner, and possibly even supporting aging parents, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. With so many responsibilities, self-care often falls to the bottom of the list. However, working towards finding balance is essential—not just for your well-being but for everyone who depends on you. The key is learning to set priorities and, most importantly, accepting that you can’t do it all—and that’s okay.

The Power of Prioritization

Trying to be everything to everyone can lead to burnout. The first step in regaining balance is recognizing what truly matters. Ask yourself: What are my non-negotiables? Your health, your family’s well-being, and your career might top the list, but that doesn’t mean every single task is urgent. Learn to delegate, get your family to do their share, say no when necessary, and focus on what aligns with your values. Let go of the pressure to have a spotless home, attend every event, or be available 24/7. Balance comes from knowing where to invest your energy. Look at what is important to you? Although my house isn't spotless I feel lighter with less clutter, so I will set a timer most days for around 30 minutes and go around have a declutter or focus on one area of the home.

Mind, Body, and Soul: Taking Care of Yourself

Taking time for self-care isn’t selfish—it’s necessary. Prioritizing your health means incorporating movement into your day, even if it’s just a quick walk or a short yoga session. Fueling your body with nourishing foods, staying hydrated, and getting enough rest are non-negotiables. Mental well-being is just as crucial. Whether it’s journaling, meditation, or simply taking five minutes of quiet time, find ways to clear your mind. And don’t forget to nurture your soul—whether through faith, hobbies, or connecting with loved ones. If you have small children an hours morning routine, will seem like a lifetime away! So, do what you can with what your lifestyle allows.

Take advice from people that have been in your situation. We can read many self help books, which can be mainly written by single men or men that aren't the default parent. So, you can end up feeling pretty rubbish that you can't keep up and do as they suggest, as your lifestyle is sowildly different. Let that go!

Letting Go of Perfection

The truth is, no one has it all figured out. Despite what Instagram will make you believe. Accepting that some days will be messy and imperfect is so freeing. What truly matters is progress, not perfection. Give yourself grace and celebrate the small wins. Finding balance isn’t about doing it all—it’s about doing what’s most important while taking care of yourself along the way.

So, busy woman, take a deep breath. You’re doing your best, and that is more than enough.