What are some practical ways I can balance love and discipline?

Its not difficult at all. As parents we need to strike a balance between being the kids' friends, give them loads of love as well as discipline them. Set certain rules and tell them why they need to follow it. My kids are very friendly with me and love me loads. Yet when it comes to manners, food, study, behavior I am very strict with them and they know that its for their betterment and its also a part of my love.