Time For What Really Matters

In today’s world many of us feel like there is just no time to accomplish everything that we want to do. The phrase that I hear over and over again in my practice is “I am overwhelmed!”. I bet that many of you reading this blog have felt exactly that way many, many times.


As a result of feeling overwhelmed, many people begin to cut corners and fail to accomplish all that they have set their sights upon. For some, this means omitting the healthy diet, exercise and physical fitness that they promised themselves; for others, it might mean not spending the time with a partner that they know that they should, and still other people may start to set aside projects that they know could lead them to greater financial freedom. Needless to say, none of these actions, or lack of actions, are in anybody’s best interest in the long run. So, how can you start managing your time to assure that you reach your goals?

The first step is to discover what is really important in your life. Take a little time and think through such questions as:

• What are my passions?
  
  
• What am I here to do?
  
  
• What are the principles that I live by?
  
  
• What am I truly capable of?
  
  
• What is my self worth, and what do I deserve?
  
  
• Are there limitations that I need to overcome?

Once that you have answered these questions about yourself, you should have a better grasp of yourself and your personal values. Do not rush your answers! These are some big questions, and you should give them the time that they deserve. Once that you have this greater insight into yourself, you will need to look at your goals.


To examine your personal goals explore such questions as:

• What do I really wish to accomplish?
  
  
• What small step can I initiate today to bring my closer to my goal?
  
  
• How will I know that I have reach my goal?
  
  
• What benefits do I expect from obtaining each goal?
  
  
• How will I monitor my progress?
  
  

By knowing what is really important to you, you can begin to motivate yourself, and set time for the things that you value most. Now it is time for you to set a schedule for yourself. Make appointments with yourself, just as you would with your doctor. Most of us do not skip a doctors visit simply because we would rather sit at home and watch the TV. Make your appointments with yourself of equal importance!


The simple act of writing out a schedule of what you plan to accomplish, and when you plan to have it done, can in and of itself be a great first step. Try this out for a week, and you will be shocked by how you can start to bring into your life the things that are of greatest value to you.


In my life coaching practice, I always guide new clients through a version of the above exercises. While having a trained professional help you along can be of immense benefit, it is possible to do some of these beginning steps entirely on your own. I wish you the best in your path to self discovery, and you can always contact my office should you want, or need any further assistance.