I love the quote by Albert Einstein on the previous page. Besides being a fan of riding bikes, I also think balance is such a key concept in our lives, especially now. However, finding balance in today’s busy world is remarkably hard to achieve. And I’m not talking about balancing your check book—there’s an app for that! I’m referring to the goal of seeking balance in all our endeavors.

Take food, for instance. We know we should eat a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and fiber and include all the necessary nutrients to keep our bodies and our families healthy. But with our busy schedules, we often run out of time to cook wholesome meals. One way to keep meal time less stressful is to plan ahead. Make a list of recipes you want to cook, buy your groceries, and then spend time on the weekends prepping meals for the week. I find cooking is very relaxing and helps me slow down and be in the moment. Let the kids join in, and you’ll also be fitting in quality time together.

Maintaining balance in your family budget can also be challenging, especially these days with runaway inflation and skyrocketing prices at the grocery stores. The good news is you can cook well on a budget, especially if you include vegetarian meals in your game plan. How about veggies in a curry sauce over rice? Or portobellos stuffed with spinach and feta? Skipping meat-centric meals will keep costs down and free up some dollars for the occasional restaurant meal.

Another area of life with which many of us struggle is getting enough exercise. I go through periods where I just can’t seem to find the time or the motivation to go for a run or visit the gym. On those days, I try to at least go for a walk or a bike ride, preferably in a place where I can also commune with nature, something that also adds balance to your life. Whether it’s the beach or First Landing State Park, you’ll find your spirits lift when you get outside and feel the sun on your face and inhale the fresh air deeply into your lungs.

I think I’ll keep the word balance in the forefront of my daily activities this month. Maybe I’ll put up a sign (like Ted Lasso) that reminds me to seek balance every day. What word resonates with you right now? Maybe it’s Ted’s word—BELIEVE! That’s a good one, too, since in order to accomplish anything in life, you have to believe in yourself and your capabilities.

As we enter the busy holiday season, think about how you can find peace and contentment in your life. Remember to take care of yourself so that you can do a better job caring for the people around you. And if you’re having a bad day, just remind yourself it will pass and keep an open mind to the new possibilities that are heading your way.

I hope you find balance this month. Believe it and it will come true!