Gals, I missed publishing yesterday's post and the ironic thing is that it's on scheduling. I have to giggle or I'll be pent up in disappointment and frustration.
You see, I love a schedule! I find comfort, let me rephrase that, I can only function in a structured routine. I use a paper planner, make beaucoup of lists and gracious do I find joy in crossing off each and every item.
Now, while that all sounds organized and tidy, it's not real life. Interruptions happen, all day long! They more often than not can upset the order. While I'll never be a ' go with the flow' or 'fly by the seat of my pants' kind of gal, I have had to learn to adapt to life's unplanned occurrences.
Prime Example - Vivian & I were invited to a play date yesterday afternoon and several things (including this post) just didn't get accomplished.
We said goodbye to Summer's fun a month ago and that has meant back to school all week, activities and additional responsibilities (new puppy Trixie being a big one!). It's been an adjustment! Some days have been challenging to get it all in the way we used to do it so I've had to create new routines with change on when we did things.
The key is 'when'. Things can easily get skipped but I'd rather work hard to shift them.
Here's what has helped me shift and create a schedule that works for me ...
1. Determine the Nonnegotiable
Here I go with another list :) Write down what the priorities are. These are responsibilities or commitments that must happen. You may want to do this in calendar form on the day of the week when it comes to timed events. For me it's my job, exercise, Vivian's activities and mine. I should throw in chores because I'm super particular about those too.
This list isn't for everything you 'want' to do but the 'musts'. This means some things may have to be on hold for a season, moved around or removed completely.
2. Timed Appointments
It helps me tremendously to have scheduled times for things. I find that if I just write down the to-dos for a day without order or timing it can be more challenging to address each one. Unlike the fairytales there are no godmothers to help us accomplish our tasks so we have to make sure it happens the best we can. Having a dedicated time helps create focus and intention on how we spend it.
example: From 5:00am -7:00am I have quiet bible time, write my blog, catch up with email and social media and then I enjoy breakfast before Vivian wakes up. I have specific hours for my job and I also allot ~3:30-5:30pm for dedicated time with just me and Vivian. I've divided chores like laundry, floors and bathrooms to certain weekdays.
**Mammas: I prioritize what I need to do without Vivian during times she's at school or asleep (my job, computer work, organizing, phone calls etc ) and that's alleviated a lot of stress and struggle for me.
3. Leave Room
I believe it's of upmost importance to leave room. Just like a bank account you don't want to spend all you have. I find it valuable to leave blank space for rest, FUN, unexpected tasks, and for others. As important as it is to be productive we are not robots. Blank space provides room to connect with others, handle the unplanned without being ruffled, and for a calmer day that includes things we enjoy.
example: I like to play with Vivian outside, surprise her with frozen yogurt or a trip to the park. I also like to enjoy meeting up with friends, reading, watching a new show. Life can't be ALL about the work.
I'm no expert on time management but it is something I work towards each day and I hope by sharing my strategies it encourages you to use your time in a way that's best for you.
We are gifted this one life to enjoy and make the best use of!
Dress Beautifully in Times of Work & Play
XOXO Sarah Louise
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