Tips To Get Things Done
Ever feel like your To Do List keeps getting longer but the days keep getting shorter? I know I struggled thinking I didn't have time to get everything done in a day and still find time to take care of myself so I wanted to share with you some tips that have helped this Hot Mess Mama keep her life on track and still find time for ME DAILY!
1. Write out your tasks in a list and prioritize them.
Make sure to include the all important task of "Me Time". You should always schedule time for yourself into every single day. It's not an optional task because by taking care of yourself, you are better able to tackle your list!
2. Tackle your most important MUST DO items first
Write 2 or 3 tasks that are the most crucial and tackle those first! Once you've completed those you will already send the rest of your day feeling accomplished.
3. Learn to Say NO!
Often times we overwhelm ourselves because we take on too many tasks to avoid disappointing others. This can lead to To Do Overload and more stress than is necessary. Learn to decline extra tasks or even offers if you simply don't have the time to commit to them.
4. Focus
When you set out to complete a task, clear the air. Make sure you are fully focused on the task and completing it. Turn off distractions so you're not tempted to stray and stay on point until you've completed the task. This will help prevent a bunch of 1/2 finished work that you need to get back to.
5. Turn Important Tasks Into Habits
If your To Do list looks anything like mine, it's comprised of a TON of daily essentials. Meal prep, workout, pick out clothes for school/work, laundry, pick up toys, check homework, etc. By making these task habitual items I know that I will get them done daily. It becomes much less likely that I won't get them done because they are ingrained in my day. No differently than showering or brushing my teeth, I make these key tasks non-negotiable.
6. Don't Think of Your List as a Whole
If you find yourself overwhelmed by the totality of your list then take a step back and breathe! Focus on one task at a time and crossing it off your list. I LOVE the feeling of physically checking things off my list so I use a planner to keep track of all my To Do's. Gahhh that checkmark feels so good to write!
7. Get Real
So this one's going to sting a little but it's time to get real with yourself. I hear from so many women I don't have time to workout, I don't have time to plan my meals, I don't have time to spend on myself......You get the point. Well if you're reading this blog (and I'm glad you are!) then it means you are scrolling on social media. Meaning......Yep! You've got time! Over the next few days write down every time you check your Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or watch YouTube, Netflix, t.v. and log the amount of time you spend each occurrence. Ever wonder where all your "extra" time goes?? I'm guessing you just found it!
8. Enjoy
How often have we heard "Life can change in an instant so enjoy it", "You only live once", "Don't get so busy making a living that you forget to have a life"? This is all so true!! Life isn't meant to be a constant race against time. Life is meant to be enjoyed and lived. Turn your tasks into something enjoyable so that you are happily living life even when you have to "adult". Set your intention to be happy, make the best out of every situation and live a life that fuels your soul.