As parents, our days are full of STUFF that “must” get done. The list goes on and on, and it’s full of “and…and….and….” Let’s be honest. There is no way to accomplish that entire list in a single day, and we are left feeling defeated and unsuccessful as parents. Why are we doing this to ourselves?!
In his book, Eat That Frog, Brian Tracy wisely points out that “There is never enough time to do everything, but there is always enough time to do the most important thing.” But how do we choose what is the most important thing? I can help with that!
I’d like to encourage you to take time to sit down, stop, and make a physical list separated into A, B, and C priorities.
A – These are things that MUST be accomplished in a day. Paying a bill, getting groceries, connecting with your family, and attending to the health/well-being of you and your family. Guess what?! Because these are the most important things to accomplish, your kiddos should be involved in them! This will foster relationship and teach them life skills.
B – This is your list of things that you’d LIKE to accomplish today, but could honestly be put off if necessary. Washing towels is a great example of this.
C – The items on this list are not a priority but should be completed within the next two weeks. Hint: Schedule them! Put these things on your calendar. For example, filing an insurance claim.
Getting organized and creating a set schedule will strengthen your family by removing the stress of grasping at five different balls in the air. I’d like to challenge you to shift from “filling” your time to strategically “leveraging” your time. Being intentional will allow you to focus on those A priorities, accomplish those A priorities, and leave you feeling SUCCESSFUL at the end of the day!
