How to have time to do everything

Kids, work, home, play, family, friends...how can I possibly have time to fit everything in?

The answer is simple…you don’t. As we leave the summer behind we start to approach what can sometimes be a ‘silly’ season for parties, gatherings and events. Many of us become even more stressed as we try to fit it all in. I can guarantee many of our clients will always say ‘I wish I had more time/I never seem to get everything done’. It’s no wonder you sometimes feel like you’re chasing your tail because truly, you cannot do it all, and what’s more, you shouldn’t aim to. Follow my top four steps and see if you can feel more in control of your busy life.

1. Prioritise

This is by far the most important thing you can do in terms of time management. Take 10 minutes out once a week to write a list with two columns. On one column write the things that absolutely HAVE to be done in that week – be strict too, don’t overload this list. Anything you would LIKE to get done must go on the other list. Aim to complete your HAVE TO list and, if you get chance then you can tick off one or two things from the WOULD LIKE TO list. But importantly, don’t beat yourself up if you don’t. It really isn’t the end of the world.

2. Be more assertive.

Practice saying NO when you really don’t have the time or you don’t want to do something. This helps you stay in control of your own time. Maybe you don’t have to go to that party, or make Sunday dinner that week for 8 people. Being a constant people pleaser also makes for a very unhappy parent.

3. Plan for your personal life.

It may only be once a week or once a month but put something in your diary for YOU. A meal out with friends, trip to the hairdressers, or a weekly yoga class. It’s essential you get that little bit of time away to recharge you batteries. Even if you feel you’re too busy or tired, you must do it. Your sanity will thank you for it…and so will our family.

4. Take time to appreciate the small things.

When something upsets or frustrates you try asking the question: Will this matter a year from now? If the answer is ‘no’ then let it go, it’s wasting your time and energy. Concentrate on the important things in life. Reward yourself for the things you do achieve every day and worry less about the things you haven’t - you have done your best. Sometimes when life gets so hectic we often don’t see the wood for the trees. This is your life, and your family’s life and it’s to be savoured and enjoyed.

For more information on our personal life coaching service for ladies check out www.coachmehappy.info or call: 07827 666 009.

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