Do you get overwhelmed thinking about all you have to do in the upcoming week, month, or even the remainder of the year? I know I do.
I wear myself out scrolling through my calendar and looking at all my upcoming travel, events, and projects. And in the past, this is where I'd shut down. Instead of spending my time wisely and take actions to ensure I'm prepared and meet deadlines, I'd plop my butt in a chair and veg out–numbing my feelings with sugar.
Repeatedly, I've seen people give up on amazing opportunities because looking at the end, and then thinking about all the work it would take to get there seemed like an impossible mountain to climb.
Speaking of mountains, have you ever climbed one? Several years ago, my mom and I skidded down Sleeping Bear Dunes in the sand, only to get to the bottom, and look and up and be nearly paralyzed at the climb ahead.
Sleeping Bear Dunes, is in the top ten for number of rescues at a National Park, and at the top, there's a sign that states, "Enjoy the view from here. Don't risk injury and rescue fees by going down-or the two hours it may take to climb back up!"
Why do so many people quit, when just moments earlier they were excited to climb the mammoth dune?
Because anytime we discover something new and shiny, we get a burst of energy that gets us started. But as we start to climb, muscles ache and it's painful. What we originally thought was going to be fun, has been littered with hurdles one didn't expect.
That's how the dune was for me. Instead of looking up at all I had to climb, I put my head down and took one step at a time. And in under thirty minutes, I'd reached the top.
If you are looking at the week, month, or year ahead, and you are wondering, how will I ever get everything done?
Take these steps:
- Make a list of all you must do.
- Prioritize what needs to get done today.
- Remove frivolous time wasters.
- And start on one item, completing that task and moving on to the next.
- Once that day is over, start all over.
I've lived by this method for years and it's how I work a full time job, write books, speak around the country, coach clients, and yes, take time for myself to have a little fun!
Blessings,
Stephanie
Inspirational Speaker and Award-Winning Author of "The Giving Challenge: 40 Days to a More Generous Life"
1 Comment
I love the pic of you and your Mom at Sleeping Bear Dunes! We go there every summer. You were only a couple of miles away from our house! (Outside of Glen Arbor). I recognized that dune right away!