Most of my clients are too busy and over-committed which is why they find themselves feeling exhausted, sick, and overweight. We stopped listening to our body and only when we get sick (migraines, diabetes, fibromyalgia, digestive issues, etc), are we forced to stop and figure out what’s wrong.
Between responsibilities with career, marriage, kids, pro bono work, and social obligations, many of us over-commit. We pack our schedule to the point that we not only run ourselves ragged but somehow there’s always curve balls to handle too. This leads us feeling strayed from what’s truly important to us in life and often becomes detrimental to our relationships and health. Does this sound all too familiar?
Let’s focus on some tips that will create more time in our day:
- Wiggle Room. We pack our activities back to back. Leave room to breathe, accommodate for traffic, or just being able to get there without rushing.
- Understand Limits. Don’t schedule more than one super demanding task a day. Most of us don’t know how long something will take us. Start paying attention to how long it takes you to get a routine task done.
- Timing. When do you have the most energy and creative juice? Work with your natural energy then you’ll be more efficient using less energy.
- Use Technology. The work place has changed dramatically in the last couple of decades. With smart phones, emails, and international companies, we can literally work around the clock, anywhere. This has sucked us dry. So…when you start working on your computer, turn off all email alerts, phone ringers, and social media. Set a timer for your project and focus.
- One Task. “If you have 10 balls in the air, 9 of them are in free fall.” We think that we can accomplish more by multitasking but we are actually less efficient. Our brains are binary – focused or not focused. Stick to one task. Delegate when possible.
- MOST IMPORTANTLY: Prioritize the Moment!!! Honor the priority of the moment and set time for work, family, and self-care without any overlap. Don’t spend time with someone and check email or social media. It doesn’t give your loved ones the attention they deserve. Don’t skimp on the self-care. It’s the lifeline that will keep you going.
It’s not easy to make changes. Baby steps! I hope that these tips will at least bring light to some of your over-commitment troubles and have you focus on making changes.
If there are changes you’d like to make in your stress level, eating habits, exercise, and overall health and happiness, start with a free health consultation at www.HappyFoodHealth.com or (619) 876-2655. See if this is the right match for you. I do things very differently to make health a natural lifestyle and this is not for everyone. Check out Yelp for other people’s opinion of Happy Food.
~ Samantha Hua, Nutrition & Holistic Health Coach, San Diego, CA
