How is it possible that I can do 3 loads of laundry, run to the bank, do a chore or two, clean out the refrigerator, do the bills, do the dishes, and as I am making dinner, feel guilty that I am not doing more? While I am folding laundry, I am thinking about the grocery store run I need to make. As I am spending time with my kids bowling, I feel guilty I am not getting stuff done at home. When I am at work, I feel guilty about what needs to get done at home, and when I am at home, I am feeling guilty about what needs to be done at work.
I have too much to do and too little time to do it. If I sat down with a girlfriend over a cup of coffee, I am sure she would share similar struggles with me as well.
So, I have started saying 6 words to myself which have really helped me to keep myself focused and not get so overwhelmed by everything I need to get done in a day. Here are the 6 words…
That is it. When I am spending two hours doing the bills or going through the mail, I find myself worried about how I need to go grocery shopping, clean out my closet, or any other slew of duties I need to get done. Then, I just say to myself, “I am doing this right now.” It helps to remind me that I am still working to get things done. I am still being productive. I cannot do everything at once, and I am doing this right now.
Sometimes when I am doing an activity, several things will come to mind which need to be done that day. I will still try to stay focused on what I am already doing, but will set a reminder on my phone so I will remember. Sometimes, when I am at work, but I have a ton of personal things which I need to get done at home, I will jot the items down on a sheet of paper during my work day so I don’t forget them. When I write them down, I find it helps me to let them go and stay focused on my work.
It goes without saying that being overwhelmed could be a sign that we are not delegating like we should be, we have taken on too many projects, not spending regular time in prayer or having a quiet time, etc. All that should be explored, but when things are just plain busy, these 6 words could really help to ground you and keep you focused.