For someone as in love with planning as I am I find it kind of surprising that I put this on my list of things to do for my #liveboldly challenge. I have waxed poetic about my lovely Erin Condren planner and I always have a running list of things to do going at all times. I am that girl who even writes things on my list that I’ve already done just so I can cross them off, and I’m not even embarrassed to say that since I think we’ve all done that at some point or another.
When I became a mom I had to learn how to give up control in so many areas of life, my precious lists being one of them. I went from hyper-controlling crazy list lady to laid-back never-makes-a-list lady all in the span of about 2 weeks, which was what I needed at the time. I needed to get over myself in all areas in order to become a better mommy to our little man, so it was good for me to do that. Then I tried to go back to my to-do list ways and found that the amount of guilt and stress and anxiety that came from not fulfilling that list was killing my soul.
Sounds dramatic, right? That’s because it was.
So now I find myself trying to find that happy balance between my crazy list lady and carefree momma selves. Some days it works out great and others it totally backfires, but what I’ve found is that when it comes to my work schedules I can let my crazy list lady self rule all. Deadlines are deadlines, and work has to get done. I can do that.
But when it comes to our days around the house, the times that I’m not working? I have lists for those too, but those are much looser. They’re happier and honestly they rarely get done – but it gives that nice freedom that I love so dearly as well.
Today’s challenge was to make a schedule and stick to it, which is specifically for my work time. However, because my work schedule is ramping up with the holiday season and my newly announced book is needing a lot of work right now it means that crazy schedule and list lady is going to get to have her way with the times that I sit down and work. It means turning off the internet, checking out from social media, and getting my head in the game.
How is this bold though? Basically I’m just taking a day to get back on track with what I’m supposed to be doing anyway – nothing cool about that. Except for the fact that I’m going into it fearlessly and with my mind set on success. Those two things make all the difference in the world, so when I take the time to work I do it all boldly for the glory of God. Fearless because he’s set me free. And successful because it’s all for Him anyway.
What are your favorite time management tips and tricks for when you sit down to get work done? I’m all ears!
Good for you for finding that balance in scheduled time and less-scheduled time! I’m a list-making, schedule-keeping fanatic, so I definitely understand the need to get everything crossed off your to-do list…and also how much it can feel like you’re a slave to your planner when you let it take over!
What really helps me is scheduling in my “fun” time. If I see that I have 30 minutes of my afternoon allotted to reading a certain article or doing XYZ later in the day, I’m less tempted to interrupt my work to “just take a minute” and try to read a few snippets or get a small bit of XYZ done…usually I end up being much more productive and much happier!
Enjoying your #liveboldly series Heather, and very excited about your book announcement. Lists are tricky–helpful when done right, but a trap at times…Sounds like you are getting a great balance!
aloha and keep it up!!
I love this post because it’s good to know that I’m not the only one who makes lists. Although there are some days when my list making fails me and it doesn’t keep me organized like it should. I sometimes struggle when it comes to time management but I’m trying to get better.
Girl, you are NOT alone 🙂 Just having grace makes all the difference in the world.