Are you finding yourself suffering from overwhelm??
Do you ever think
• There is so much to do, where do I start?
• I know where I want to go, but can’t see how?
• I feel way out of my depth?
This weekly wisdom message will come in 3 parts. I have much to say on this, so I will break it up into three weeks.
This week I will deal with “So much to do, where to start?”
Part One: Get organised.
1) The dreaded “to-do” list. If you don’t write down tasks and rely on memory – then that is the first cause of anxiety. Relying on memory will create that sinking feeling when you know you need to do something, but cannot remember … “winging it” can work, but will limit your mental capacity to take on more as stress becomes the norm.
I am unable to function from memory, if I don’t write it down straight away – it’s gone.
It’s not about multi-tasking, it is about systemizing. Create a system that deals with tasks, and your mind will be free to focus on what’s in front of you. Be present with what you are currently doing – stop worrying about the next task, or next week – create a system that works for you and frees you to focus.
2) Calendarize the “to-do” list. First write down EVERYTHING you know needs doing – important tasks required whether business or personal – include family obligations. Then place each task in your calendar – whether it is electronic or a paper diary. Once the tasks are spread into a calendar, you will feel much lighter and capable.
If however, you have spread it out, and you cannot see how you will get it all done –> then it is time to CULL…. Time to delegate or dump. Being super-human will burn you out!
3) Get rid that which does not serve. Ask yourself “How does this serve me?” If it does not, then DON’T DO IT!!!!
Be ruthless. If you don’t put your self first – no-one else will. Stop being the doormat.
Learn to say “NO!”. And do not justify your “NO” to anyone. You don’t have to give a reason. Remember “To JUSTIFY is JUST TO LIE”. Whether it is a client appointment, professional appointment, family commitment or hair appointment – you are unavailable…simples.
4) Declutter. Yes, declutter your home, desk, files, cupboards. Get rid of “stuff’ that is clogging your ability to think clearly. If you have not used it, worn it or eaten it in the past 2 years, then it HAS TO GO!
I’m not talking about the puffer jacket your saving for the snow (keep that!). Most people only use 10% of their wardrobe. If you want to keep the skinny clothes or your fat clothes, then fine – pop them into a tub and store away. Get rid of that cupboard full of cosmetics you don’t use – yep you bought into the hype … don’t worry – we all do – just chuck it already.
Pantry and fridge – all those past expiry dates –> in the bin.
That amazing dish you were going to do cause you watched a cooking show 3 years ago, and bought all the ingredients –>in the bin.
Do you have enough plates for 50 people, and only cook for 3??? Well you know what to do …. CULL.
5) Non-negotiable routines. Make your bed as soon as you get out of bed. Start the day by achieving a basic task – this sets the tone for the rest of the day. Take a look at this video.
“If you can’t do the little things right, you will never be able to do the big things right.”
Go to bed “clean”. Clean the dishes, clear the mess and be ready for the morning. Going to bed with a clean and clear space for the morning will clear your mind and aid your sleep.
Just like brushing your teeth, create non-negotiable habitual routines. Drinking water, taking supplements, doing exercise, meditation etc. One by one, add non-negotiable habitual routines. It takes 21 days to create a habit, so be realistic. After these routines become habitual, you don’t have to even think about them –> this creates a clear mind and drastically increases efficiency, productivity and your capacity to tackle challenges.
6) Prioritise your day. Go over your tasks allocated for the next day, and prioritize most important ones – plan to do those first. Whether you get up early and take time to plan your day, do it before retiring or at 4pm in the afternoon – make a non-negotiable habitual routine to go over the day.
Yes, the list above would seem basic, however I know only a handful of people who actually do this consistently. And those who do this consistently see dramatic results without the overwhelm!
Remember – make realistic steps one by one.
Inch by inch, it’s a cinch!