Balance is a term I use a lot when it comes to my work and my life. Having an art and graphic design background, I understand the importance of visual balance in design. Physical balance is also good, otherwise we’d fall down a lot more.

Personal balance is just as important.

Several years ago, I spent a whole year traveling with a music team, playing concerts almost every day. I had a blast playing the drums, meeting people, and traveling. It was a year of adventures. Exhausting, but rewarding. One thing I remember throughout that year: I loved what i was doing, but I really wanted to spend more time creating art, doing graphic design projects, and developing websites.

Now my life consists of creating art, doing graphic design projects and developing websites full time. I love every moment of it. Still, sometimes I get the desire to go play music every day.

Keeping both of these passions in my life is key for me to keep my “personal balance.” So how does one keep their balance, while still making a living?

One tip that I started implementing after I went full time with my own design company: Reserve one day a week to do my own projects. EVERY WEEK!

And it works.

By keeping myself in my personal balance, I found I was more creative, more productive, more focused and just plain in a better mood.

So I challenge you to try applying the “one day a week” rule. Do something your passionate about that you don’t do every day at work. I bet it will help your outlook on life. And let me know how it goes for you.