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I don’t know about you, but I have a robust to-do list going at all times.
Most women do; it’s just in our DNA.
Then I have my “when I get caught up” list. You know, all those loose-end tasks that are filler for days when I may have an extra five minutes. Things like “get a mammogram” or “check into new glasses.” These are my “when I get caught up” tasks, along with the other 147,000 things that I feel like I need to complete ASAP.
The problem is that I always need to catch up. My “when I get caught up” list hangs over my head and pokes at my subconscious, sometimes making me feel frustrated and powerless.
However, there is a way to tame overscheduling and practice better time management. Anyone can apply three straightforward solutions to minimize the struggle to “stay on top of things.”
The First is asking for help.
Asking for help is never easy, but it’s kind of like exercising a muscle that it gets easier as time goes on. Taking a hard look at the number of directions I was running, and how much I was trying to do alone was pretty eye-opening. If I was to keep going on the Headlong-Rush-Path-of-Life I was on, I saw a future fitting for a wrap-around blazer in a lovely shade of white with complimentary rubber room.
And here’s the thing: I promise you if you do ask for help, you won’t be shunned or labeled a wimp, There’s great strength in knowing when to ask for help. Don’t be shy or embarrassed. Your mental health is more precious than your pride. Ask.For.Help if you need it.
The Second is Saying NO.
“No” is the magical word you can utter when an overly demanding client or employer asks for you assistance on a project (on the weekend), your PTA pressures you to bake 19 dozen muffins for the bake sale or well-meaning family member asks if you can babysit “just for a little while” (like 8 hours). I struggle with this magical word. It eludes me sometimes. Gets caught in my throat. So let’s work on it together, shall we?
OK, all together now. Pucker your lips, flex your diaphragm, dig real deep and repeat after me…. “NO.”
Please never forget that “No” is also a complete sentence. You don’t need to explain or justify, just let those two letters escape from your lips and know that its enough.
If saying no sounds too harsh or abrupt, try this sentence instead. Polite, professional, and to the point. “I’d love to, BUT NOT AT THIS TIME.”
The Third is Get It Done.
Since you can’t outsource your mammogram or eyeglasses appointment, and these things are important to your health, just bite the bullet and get it scheduled. The feeling of accomplishment when you can tick these items off your list is priceless.
