I’ve been thinking about how we are always adding just one more thing to our plate. Sometimes it’s something we genuinely want to do. Sometimes it’s something we want to do because it matters to someone we love. Sometimes we say yes because we want to be kind, help out, support someone or simply because we think, “I can squeeze that in.” 
I started last Monday with a plan. I had my to-do list, a whole week mapped out in my head and the intention of finally catching up on some work.
By Monday afternoon, that plan had gained a surprise hospital visit with my mom, she’s okay, and me volunteering to be the photographer at my son’s prize giving.
And just like that… there were a couple of extra plates being added to the balancing act. 
As the week went on, some things got ticked off the list.
Some things got added
Some things got moved to another day…
And a few got a very enthusiastic A for effort. 
And honestly? That’s okay.
Life doesn’t always follow the to-do list. Sometimes people need us. Sometimes unexpected things happen. Sometimes we choose to put the list down and make memories instead.
But I think there’s something really important in learning to recognise when we’ve reached our limit.
It’s okay to push yourself sometimes. It’s okay to help. It’s okay to try something new, take on a challenge and have fun.
But it’s also okay to say no.
And I know that can be SO hard. Especially when you’re used to being the person who helps, who gets things done, who somehow finds a way to fit just one more thing in.
Knowing your limits doesn’t mean you’re lazy, selfish or letting anyone down.
Sometimes saying no is simply recognising that you can’t pour from an empty cup.
So this week, I’m trying to remember that balance doesn’t mean getting everything done perfectly. Sometimes balance is knowing what deserves your energy today, what can wait until tomorrow… and what perhaps doesn’t need to be on your plate at all. 
Take on the things that matter. Help where you can. Have fun. Be there for the people you love.
But leave a little space for you too. 
Because sometimes the most productive thing we can do is simply breathe and say, “That can wait.” 
Have a wonderful week everyone 
