I don’t know about you, but there have been times when I’ve gotten to the end of the day and couldn’t figure out what I had actually accomplished. Don’t get me wrong, my day had been jam-packed and I didn’t have a second to stop, so why is it that I felt completely unproductive? Reflecting back on it, my guess is that I gave into the busy and didn’t focus on the important.
Have you ever felt that way? That life is pulling you in 20 different directions with commitments and opportunities and obligations that you don’t even have time to slow down and consider what things are actually essential? What you actually want to be doing?
The days and years can go by in a flash if we continue down this path, but this month we are going to make a change. We’re going to think before we do. We’re going to consider before we agree. We’re going to weigh the options before we start. We are going to make it a point to prioritize ourselves, our family, our friends and the work that is most important to us so that we have time to do what matters.
Now, there’s no rulebook or right or wrong in determining what matters and what doesn’t. That’s a personal decision. But, for me, I’m not going to worry whether my house is perfect before inviting friends over. I’m going to pinpoint my goals and the steps it will take to get me there and get to work. I’m going to close my computer when my son wants help with his math homework and give him my full attention. I’m going to set the chores aside and take my dog out for her walk.
Bottom line, I’m going to show up for the people in my life and let them know they are what matters. And, I’m going to put myself on that list, too, and go after my dreams. Yep, it’s going to take work, but, ah, isn’t the payout exquisite?!
There is a quote from the Stoic Marcus Aurelius that speaks beautifully to this month’s theme:
“It is essential for you to remember that the attention you give to any action should be in due proportion to its worth, for then you won’t tire and give up, if you aren’t busying yourself with lesser things beyond what should be allowed.”
This month, think about what matters—really, truly matters—and make it a point to prioritize those things. It may mean saying “no” to things you normally would have done. It may mean saying “yes” to things that scare you. Either way, it will mean that you are giving priority to the important and essential things. And that, my friend, is doing what matters.
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