One of the most prevalent things I hear from clients is that life is rushing by so fast. There are so many things to do, they tell me with a strain in their voices. They share more…”I am so behind in my work commitments. I don’t feel good at the end of the day, because I don’t feel like I accomplished very much. My personal life? Forget about it! There’s not enough time in the day to meditate, make healthy meals and do a workout.”
When I hear this, I nod my head. I totally get it. It breaks my heart to watch people let their dreamss slip away, settle for status quo and let life live them instead of living life full on.
For years, I have cultivated the best systems and strategies that allow me to thrive in my career and live the life of my dreams.
I don’t take this topic of living your dreams lightly.
You shouldn’t either.
I believe in my heart that we are meant to life the fullest and richest life we possibly can.
It is possible.
It can be done with the right mindset and a handful of simple strategies.
Here are three of my absolute most favorite and most effective methods to live your dreams and do what matters:
- “Bend” Time
The amazing thing about time is that it truly is “bendable.” For your next project, determine how much time you will need to complete it, then “pad” it with extra time. Most projects take more time and energy than you think they will. When we make room for this by adjusting our time frames to complete a project, an incredible thing happens: You get it done! No more guilty feelings about half-baked projects lying around waiting to be completed. - Fiercely Guard Your Time
Like a good watchdog, protect your time as if your life depends on it. Because it does. Just because someone is pulling at you to do something doesn’t mean you need to do it right now (or at all!). One of my coach colleagues shared this little tidbit with me, and it’s been a lifesaver: “Your emergency is not necessarily my emergency.” Learn to say NO. Saying no will allow you to say YES to what is truly important. - Edit Your Life to Spark Joy
Clutter takes many forms. It’s the extra emails that clog up your inbox; the old programs, podcasts and apps that take up energetic space both in your mind and your computer; it’s old clothes, shoes, trinkets and outdated technology; it’s unresolved issues that you haven’t taken care of; and on and on. Marie Kondo, author of the wildly popular “The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up,” teaches in her book to do a thorough review of your possessions and to ask the question: “Does this item spark joy?” If it does not, her advice is to dispose of it. Her method goes far beyond typical tidying up. It is, in Marie’s own words, a way of life and state of mind. Starting today, edit your life and only keep that which sparks joy. Watch your life change for the better. Fast.
There you have it my friend, for this upcoming week: “bend,” fiercely protect your time, and
let go of whatever isn’t sparking joy!
Copyright © 2018 Diana Long