Ever thought about creating time rather than just managing it?
Yes, creating! While time may be our greatest equalizer, it's not just about counting down hours; it's about filling those hours with purpose, intention, and alignment with our deepest values and priorities.
It's not about reacting to time but actively shaping it to reflect the life we want.
Here are five tips to help you do just that:
Embrace Planning with Purpose: While spontaneity has its charms, deliberate planning is key to achieving what matters most. When I decided to add a regular swimming practice the first thing I did was look at the pool schedule and put the times on my calendar. It didn't happen right away, but eventually, I started working on other things around this priority.
Choose Your Beads Wisely: Imagine your time as a jar filled with colored glass beads, where each bead represents a block of your time, and each color, an area of your life. Which colors are you choosing? Are they reflecting the areas you truly value? This visual can be a powerful tool in aligning your daily actions with your broader life goals.
Commit to Your Choices: Deciding in advance how to use your time eliminates the paralysis of indecision. Write down your plan, revisit it regularly, and adjust as necessary. Remember, it's about being purposeful with the 'beads' you place in your 'jar'.
Embrace the Uncomfortable: Our brains are wired to seek comfort and avoid discomfort, leading us to procrastinate or neglect our plans. Acknowledging this tendency and committing to your plan regardless is crucial. Watch your brain offer excuses, but gently guide it back to your commitments.
Plan for Enjoyment: Don't forget to schedule time for joy and relaxation. Balancing productivity with pleasure ensures a well-rounded life, keeping burnout at bay and maintaining our motivation.
Take a listen to the full one-hour audio Creating Time by hitting the button below. Hear a few people share common struggles and my suggestions in this live coaching conversation.