Here’s the secret to time management: Be Intentional. Were you expecting something better? More fancy? Harder?
I haven’t always been a good time manager. But I’ve been pretty dang productive for a really long time! Like at least 10 years time has 
been on my side. I’ve learned to schedule. I’ve learned to time block. I’ve learned to structure my day so that I spend the most critical hours of my day doing MY high priority items before I jump into doing what everyone else needs from me.
I’ve got all the tips and tricks. And yet, somewhere along the way I crossed the line from productive into BUSY. Whenever someone asked how I was doing. “I’m great!” I’d answer and then with a little sigh “Busy! But good.” I’d tack on.
When did I start wearing busy like a badge of honor? When did I start stressing about empty space on my calendar? Like if my google calendar didn’t look like a jam packed marathon every day something must be wrong.
Ya’ll I got addicted to being busy! I fully admit. And in full transparency, I’m still in recovery. Last year was the year where I cut out all the fat so to speak from my life. I said no to the wrong business. I stopped chasing dreams that weren’t making me happier, but were making me feel more and more pressure to perform. And I got honest with myself. I was well beyond being a productive entrepreneur with goals and had crossed the line into someone who was persistently busy. And it wasn’t good.
So this year, I’m on a journey. My pilgrimage back to the land of peaceful productivity.
I’ve mapped out my own recovery program. And am tackling these challenges one at a time. If you’d like to join me, please be my guest.
Sleep. I want it. I need it. And I’m no longer willing to ignore it. Give me those 8 hours. Or at least 7.- Taking my time first. My time isn’t the same as my business’s time. Imagine that. I want actual Amy time. Time where I write. Or play music. Or go on walks just because I want to clear my head midday. I want this time to be my highest priority.
- Breaks: Speaking of breaks. Take them. Every single day. I’m guilty of packing my day so tight I barely have time to pee. No more. This year I learn to take breaks.
- Stopping when I say I’ll stop: You know this one. You say I’m leaving my office today at 4. And then it’s 6 by the time you finally unplug. Nope. Not doing it.
- Stay in the moment: When I’m listening to my kids tell me their ridiculous stories, I want to actually listen. I don’t want to think about my deadlines while I’m on a date with my husband. Fully present is my goal.
I have more on my list. I actually have 13 habits I want to establish this year as I break up with busy and reclaim my time. But these 5 are my first priorities.
Anyone else out there a recovering busyaholic? Share with us what is working for you to create more peace as you progress towards your goals.