The fresh excitement around a list of intentions can carry me far, but somewhere along the way, I have to energize my efforts on my own and follow through with that lovely list or else, at the end of the year a pretty list is all it will be.
In the past I have made those overwhelming long to-do lists that reach all the way to the moon, but that type of list is unproductive for me. I need something short, simple and most of all accomplishable. I have come to realize that if my list has more than 8 things on it for the day, my mind goes a little woggley and I become unfocused.
So now, I make a list every morning of the must do's, then it becomes fresh in my mind. I honestly look at the time frame and don't over schedule. (This is a new practice. I used to think ‘oh, if I just get this done, then I can relax.’ For me, there is never just one more thing. I will always do more if given the chance.) With the newly created list I can take on those few jobs and let the others go for the day. This gives me a chance to concentrate on what is in front of me, instead of allowing a few stressful responsibilities to grow bigger in my mind before I have even had a chance to begin them.
Of course there is always more to do, but there is also a need to breathe and take a break to refresh for the next day. I make sure to add the important things that nourish me and give them priority too — these are my strength builders—a must. If I don't take care of me, I won't be of any use to anyone. If I don't give the nourishing things priority, no one else will either.
This list also has a flip side — it instantly becomes a reflection of everything I have done. When a day arises and I am feeling low, like I have no energy or I don't think I am accomplishing anything, I can peek back through my crossed off items and see on paper the progress I am making. It is a map of how I arrived at this place, a record of my journey and a chance to smile at all the work and challenges I have faced head on. Celebrating is crucial...
If we don't honor the work we have done, we won't feel inspired and motivated to continue forward. Celebrate your accomplishments! Embrace this ritual— it may inspire you to accomplish more than you could ever dream.
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