We all want to keep our balance even in the midst of the most hectic seasons of life. Many of us experience that desire with special fervor after a time of rest and renewal. When on vacation we feel the layers of stress in our lives dissipate and we begin to relish that experience of feeling like ourselves again. We don't want to let it go!

So, how can we stay focused on keeping our balance? How can we avoid getting entangled in the craziness of unreasonable schedules and seemingly urgent issues? How can we reject the myth that being busy means we are important? How can we navigate the realities of our lives in a way that doesn't allow for the building up of those layers of stress again?

The answers will surely be different for each one of us. But being mindful of staying true to ourselves and our desires for balanced living is the most significant key. This involves an honest re-evaluation of our core values. It requires confronting the stumbling blocks that consistently get in the way. It will mean paying close attention to the warning signs that our bodies and souls give us when we are at risk of falling back into old patterns.

The three questions below can help keep us honest and assist us in framing ways to navigate those daily challenges that potentially lead to significant stress:

• What can I control in this situation?
• How much influence do I have in this situation?
• What are the realities of this situation that I must accept?

Keeping your balance involves finding ways to own areas of control; to use your influence where possible; and to graciously embrace those realities that simply need to be accepted.