Let’s face it, as women, we juggle tons of responsibilities. Whether it’s taking care of a family, working, volunteering, taking care of aging parents, or all of the above and more, you probably have a lot on your plate.

One of the biggest challenges is having the energy to manage it all. We struggle to get everything done, and are left with zero energy at the end of the day. Then we feel guilty for all the things we didn’t do.

It’s a cycle that’s easy to fall into. But living this way means we’re always in survival mode.

But life isn’t just about surviving. You deserve to be truly healthy, to enjoy life, and to thrive. And to do that, we have to find ways to create balance.

Here are my top three tips for creating more balance in your life:

1. Schedule YOU-time on your to-do list

Make yourself a priority. In most cases, whatever’s on the calendar gets done, and whatever isn’t, gets put off till “another day.” Schedule time every week to take walks, read books, or have coffee with friends.

2. Remember it’s ok to say ‘no’

It’s hard to say no. Believe me, I’m a self-proclaimed “yes woman.” We don’t want to let anyone down. We feel guilty.

But every time you say YES to something, you’re saying NO to something else.​

Don’t make a habit of prioritizing everyone else, while throwing yourself and your health under the bus.

3. Set boundaries

As women, we’re natural nurturers. We want to please and be there for others. But when you’re perpetually stressed and tired, you’ll actually be less productive, less creative, less enthusiastic, and less present for others. You’re just going through the motions.

When you set boundaries around your time and energy, everyone around you gets the best version of you instead of the frazzled, worn out version. Plus, you’re setting an example of how to love and care for yourself, which gives others permission to do the same.