It seems that every day of my life I am pulled in a million and four different directions. If I am not answering the demands of my family, I find myself catering to the needs of "The Man" at work. I knew what I was getting into when I decided to add another hat  (college) to my already heavy head, but obtaining a college degree would, hopefully allow me to take the position of "The Woman". Deciding to attend school was something that I've always wanted to do, but eventually turned into something that I needed to do. I have to provide a better life for my family, but in doing so I had to realize that it didn't necessarily require a large salary, but my presence and participation in their lives.

While making plans to save the world from all the evil it holds, I still have to find a comfortable home/work/school life balance. And I can tell you now that while I'm making progress, it's still very difficult to stay afloat. I'm learning to organize my life in a way that will keep my kids out of therapy as they grow older. My fridge is full of color coded schedules reminding me where I need to be and the mileage I have placed on my Ford lets me know that even though I can't be everywhere at once, I will always end up where I need to be.

Keeping an eye on the goals that we set are paramount if we aspire to be better than we are, but it's also important - especially if you are a parent - to make sure that your family and friends aren't neglected in the process. For me, carving out time for myself is just as important as making time for others. If I'm not in prime condition to run after my 6 year old or attend a Hannah Montana concert with my 9 year old, then who will? 

Ladies, in order to enjoy the fruits of your labor exercise, eat right, get a massage... do something worthwhile for yourself, because in the end having peace of mind is much greater than a six figure paycheck and a therapist bill to boot!