A frequent complaint of leaders I coach is that they don’t have enough time in their day. The healthy habits they’ve read about in books, been prescribed by doctors, and perhaps intermittently practiced–things like reading, journaling, walking, going to the gym, or meditating–just don’t fit into their busy schedules.
I’m here to tell you that you have all the time you need to do what’s important to you.
For example: this morning, I have already worked out twice, meditated, read for 90 minutes, spent an hour outside watering the plants, completed my Success Planning for next week, and written this blog. It is not yet 11AM.
Granted, this was written on a Sunday, and even on weekends I get up earlier than most. But the point is not to brag, nor to encourage you to adopt my habits, but to illustrate that it is possible (and maybe even essential) to do everything you want to do each day, with time to spare. What you should be focusing on isn’t time, but energy.
Energy management begins with a positive, action-oriented mindset meant to encourage behaviors aligned with your sense of purpose and values. The mindset that I utilize is, “I have all the time and energy to work on what’s important, and I am committed to the actions that will yield the greatest results.” I advise you to draft and adopt a mindset around energy management that works for you.
Once you have your mindset, invest a few days tracking your patterns. When do you feel most motivated? What tasks or habits excite you, and which ones create inertia? Just notice and observe these patterns. Don’t judge or evaluate. The mere act of drawing your attention to energy management will set a growth process in motion. Gradually, you will find yourself building momentum and adopting a sustainable routine.
Energize yourself about BIG outcomes, the things that really light you up. Detach yourself from the results by focusing on consistent actions and habits. Most importantly, repeat this mantra until you believe it: I have plenty of time.
If you’re struggling to find the energy and motivation to make an impact in your life, send me an email at [email protected].
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