Life is all about trying to find that happy balance between work and relaxation. It is something I think we all struggle with, regardless of how old you may be. I'm the type of person that likes to have everything planned out ahead of time so I can follow a schedule. I know this past semester, when I took six classes and juggled working part-time simultaneously, I had a difficult time finding any sort of balance in my life. I constantly felt stressed and anxious about the next thing I had to do, even when I had some time to myself.

Now that I finally graduated, I don't have nearly as many responsibilities laying on my shoulders. Of course, I am still working, writing, and volunteering, but I think I am finally learning how to create that balance in my life. I was also focused on work and school that the word "relax" was no longer a part of my vocabulary. Like I mentioned earlier, everyone tends to struggle with this from time to time, it is completely normal.

Taking time for yourself to relax IS OKAY. I know sometimes it may feel like you are obligated to be doing something productive 24/7, but you really don't have to be. That is how you burn yourself out and that is not remotely healthy at all for your physical or mental health. Our society paints this picture that if you are being somewhat lazy and take a day to be at the beach or take some time off for a vacation that you are not spending your time wisely. News flash, taking some time to unwind and create memories with people you love is totally acceptable and is HEALTHY.

We all have responsibilities that we have to tend to, which is something that will never end, but we have the power to take control of our lives and create that balance. There is a time for work and there is a time for play and relaxation. It is inevitable that we will all probably continue to battle this, but being aware of it is always a good place to start.

Once you acknowledge that you need to find the balance, simply take action. Don't just tell yourself that you need a day of relaxation, actually do it and take a day off! Go to the beach, go hang out with your friends and family, or go read a book by the pool. Your body and mind will thank you later for it.

So, yes, finding that balance in our crazy lives can be quite tricky sometimes. However, you are the only person who has control over changing that. We are all guilty of forgetting to put ourselves first from time to time, but that doesn't make you a bad person. It also doesn't make you a bad person for taking a mental health day to do absolutely nothing, so what are you waiting for?