I have just recently resumed my yoga and medition practice, which has been wonderful for helping me 'balance my life'. For the longest time, I procrastinated, convincing myself that I didn't have time for an exercise routine or yoga. Boy, was I wrong! I have more energy, and a much easier time clarifying priorities and finding time for other things, including writing. In fact, have finally tackled the chapter that I have been struggling with for 2 months. Posting my 'must do' list on sheets of flip chart paper in the office helps too!

I can succumb to being overwhelmed by not achieving everything on my "To Do List". Pam has helped my by pointing out that my list can be unreasonably large. I try to keep that in mind. But I have also found that when I am feeling overwhelmed, something akin to a guitar string that is too tight and is sure break I need only take time to breathe. Sounds silly and but I need only find a quiet spot and breathe for one minute. Big big breathes - in and out. Then I can continue, now with renewed energy and a clear mind. Oxygen is great and it is free!

*grin*

Since not all of us here are writers, I'd extend your question to say balance period. That's one of the things that I try to help people--including myself with, and it can be a challenge. A friend of mine (PeterD) talks about not actually searching for balance so much, because that can lead to getting lulled into something akin to status quo where nothing grow or changes, to simply becoming a better juggler. I really like that idea.
By being a better juggler, and not worrying about some of the balls that I drop (because they are the non-important ones) I can keep the ones that I want in the air, and that keeps things pretty interesting, and manageable for me.
I do have a routine. Early to rise, late to bed, and then approaching things in a systematic way helps me to stay on top of what's important...and to take time out for Chinese food or a movie now and again too.