Did you ever lose your balance while riding a bike or while skating? Have you ever fallen on the ice? When we are out of balance good things usually "do not" happen.

Take a look at areas of your life where you may be out of balance. For example, if you are not careful, work can take over your life. Earn more! Learn more! Sell more! Move faster. It's not surprising that there is an epidemic of stress in the workplace. A survey by the American Banking Association indicated that 85% of us do not find our jobs enjoyable and fulfilling. Are you balancing your work responsibilities with your family's needs? If you are not, what is the answer?

In most cases the answer is following the 80-20 Rule. This is the rule that says that 80% of our success comes from 20% of our activity. This was true for Michael. He was having a problem balancing his family time, his time on the job, and time with his favorite activity which is golf. He simply ran out of time.

Michael asked us if we would coach him out of this no-win situation. Because of this conflict and the stress that it created, he was not performing well in any area. However, he was constantly busy. We suggested that he think seriously about the 80-20 Rule. We asked Michael to think about the consequences of the decisions he was making by asking himself these questions: Is what I'm doing really moving me to the results I want? What do I really, really want for my life? What actions will bring me closer to my goals? We know it sounds overly simple, but you will find that when you focus on crystal clear results, the actions needed for their accomplishment will appear.

For Michael the 80/20 Rule served as a daily reminder to focus his time and energy on the 20 percent that produces results. He didn't just "work smart," he worked smart on the right things. As a result, not only did his job become more fulfilling, but a happy family life emerged and he was also able to take a half a day each week to play golf.

Take a look at the areas of your life that seem to be stressful and not fulfilling. How does the 80-20 rule apply to your physical well-being, your finances, your spiritual life, your family, your career? As soon as you discover what is out of balance, refocus on the results you want and take action. Action means change. Remember that the same old actions will bring the same old results.

As professional coaches, we believe in you. We believe you are capable, competent and strong. We believe you have within you everything you need to create your life exactly the way you want it to be.

"To change one's life: Start immediately,

Do it flamboyantly, No exceptions." --William James--