It’s All About Balance

UPDATED 02/07/2025

Something I’ve always heard about is the concept of “work/life balance”. The fact is, that’s something incredibly hard to achieve. I’m all about balance but in life, I’ve been trying to achieve it forever and still haven’t quite figured it out. When it come to the weekend and having some fun, you bet I’m up for a cocktail every now and then.

In Massachusetts, where I live, we do not have “Happy Hour”. I know a lot of other states do. It’s not that bad to head out on a Friday night with your friends to grab some drinks and a bit to eat. But it can easily get out of hand. So, I’ve compiled a few tips for you to help you stay balanced while you’re out having fun.

Be picky. Depending on where you’re heading, the menu can range from super healthy to a little toxic. So before you order, read what’s on the menu. See if you can tell what’s in the recipe and if the ingredients are even something you like. If there’s something you’re craving, ask if you can customize a menu item so it can be created just for you.

Choose a healthier cocktail. While I like a beer, sometimes it’s a good idea to try something different. You can choose a cocktail that has a lower-calorie alcohol, add herbs to spice it up, or even go for a mocktail.

Eat before you go. If you want to save on the calories, have something healthy before you head out. You’ll be less likely to crave those potato skins from the appetizer menu. Chicken breast or a kale salad packed with tuna and berries are great options. Whether you choose to eat before you go or eat out with your friends, make sure to choose something you like.

And if you’re going do a “Happy Hour at Home”, you’re the chef! You are making the menu so you know what’s going to be served. Even better! You can choose healthy ingredients, organic if you can, and make things with lots of color. Why color? Because it will not only be visually appealing, but has a better chance of being good for you.

Remember, it’s about balance, not about feeling guilty. You can enjoy your life and maintain a happy, healthy lifestyle. If you’ve got a great recipe, share it in the comments. I’m all about trying something new.

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Jenn Mullen holds degrees in Psychology and Business Management, as well as a certification in health and wellness coaching. She combines over a decade of corporate experience with more than five years of small business expertise, bringing a unique blend of skills and insight to her work. Beyond her expertise, she’s a high-energy, passionate individual with ADHD who thrives on staying organized, bringing laughter to every project, and finding joy in the work she loves.