If trying to maintain balance in your life leaves you feeling like a tightrope walker, you’re not alone.  Most of us have so many demands on our time and energy, life can feel like a three-ring circus.  Take this quiz to see how well you are meeting responsibilities, while also recognizing and fulfilling personal needs and desires.

1:  I achieve a balanced life by nurturing myself physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually.  True/False

2:  Nurturing myself enlarges my capacity to help others.  True/False

3:  I eat healthy foods, exercise regularly and refuel myself through rest.  True/False

4:  I invest in regular preventive health care and wellness, along with timely treatment of any illnesses.  True/False

5:  I set aside personal, quiet time for myself, whether I’m meditating, journaling or simply letting my thoughts drift.  True/False

6:  I experience the gifts of each season outside and indoors.  True/False

7:  Creativity nurtures me, too.  I do what I love, whether that’s cooking, drawing, painting, writing, dancing, singing or another creative pursuit.  True/False

8:  Reaching out to others enriches my life.  I spend quality time with family and friends.  True/False

9:  Contributing to the world provides connection and purpose.  I invest my time, energy and experience where it can best serve the Highest Good for all.  True/False

10:  I notice the emotional signals that tell me I’m out of balance:  irritability, overwhelm and resentment.  I invest my attention and energy in restoring my sense of Wholeness.  True/False

11:  I notice the physical signs of illness.  Realizing I may have stressed my immune system with overactivity or stress, I stop, take care of myself and adjust my perspective and commitments.  True/False

12:  I do not overcommit myself.  I say “no” to additional requests for my time when I realize they will put my mental, physical, emotional or spiritual wellbeing in jeopardy.  True/False

13:  I listen to and honor the requests my body makes for such things as a nap, a walk, green vegetables and hot soup.  True/False

14:  If I have something planned for myself, I don’t just toss that aside when someone makes a request of me.  True/False

15:  No matter how busy I may be, I make time for the things that bring me joy and fulfillment.  True/False

16:  My life is a Journey to Wholeness.  I experience deep peace, lasting joy and meaningful relationships.  True/False

If you answered false more often than true, one of the best ways to begin shifting to a greater sense of fulfillment is to identify baby steps that will move you in the direction of better balance.

If you’d appreciate some help getting started, click here to schedule a 60-minute complimentary coaching session.

Author’s content adapted under license, © 2011 Claire Communications