How to avoid over-committing, over-scheduling, and a lot of stress!

The anxiety of always feeling like there is too much to do and too little time seems to be common among of my friends. How often do you hear people say “I’m going to squeeze in a lunch,” or “I’ll try to fit you in,” or “let me work it into my schedule.” When you have to fit, squeeze or work it in, chances are you’re spreading yourself too thin. By trying to do it all, we often over-commit and when we over-commit we usually end up sacrificing something— like focus, respect, quality time, and peace.

Bottom line, we’re all busy these days and often trying to balance many commitments. But ask yourself what’s more important… participating in lots of activities, or thoroughly enjoying few… accomplishing as many tasks as possible, or completing one task well… having lots of interactions with various people, or having meaningful connections… you get the idea! It has become clear to me that I need to honor and respect myself, and others, by setting aside the appropriate amount of time for whatever it is I am doing. (more…)