Striking the Balance Between Work, Life, and Everything in Between
Navigating the complex terrain of running a business, being a devoted mother, sharing equal partnership responsibilities, managing households (sometimes multiple), delegating efficiently, trusting others, and considering outsourcing options is a challenge that often goes unspoken. The endeavor to handle an ever-growing list of responsibilities can create a sense of overwhelming enormity, particularly when we feel compelled to shoulder this all-encompassing load alone. The last quarter of each year is my time to reflect and assess in areas I can improve on.
This may sound like it’s coming from left field, but have you ever contemplated that according to researchers, it takes a collective effort of eight individuals to effectively raise a child?
I bring up this statistic to underscore the thought-provoking query: how many individuals does it truly require to sustain a well-kept household? Think about it – from skilled trades like painters and roofers to the intricate world of designers and General Contractors, even extending to the indispensable support of pet sitters, nannies, house cleaners, and let's not forget the dedicated organizers who create order from chaos.
And then, in the midst of all this, imagine seamlessly incorporating a corporate job – possibly conducted from the confines of your home – while simultaneously undertaking home renovations, tending to the needs of children or aging parents, maintaining a semblance of a social life, and prioritizing your health and well-being. The question that persists: how many fleeting hours actually make up a day? My focus for the last 3 months has been firmly fixed on a pursuit that involves redistributing tasks, an effort aimed at reclaiming the precious commodity of time.
In today's fast-paced world, where demands and distractions seem to be endless, effective time management and organization have become essential skills for achieving success and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Juggling work commitments, personal responsibilities, and the pursuit of passions can feel overwhelming, but with the right strategies and mindset, you can take control of your time and achieve harmony in all aspects of your life. I opened the doors of Green Mountain Space with the thought of, “no one should have to do life alone.”
We equally support people who are going through a tragic time of the loss of a loved one or going through a divorce to celebrating the announcement of a new baby, blending households after marriage, and creating new flows within homes after moving, or renovations. Our list of services does not stop there, see our full list here. The gist of it is, regardless if you have a heart ache or a heart warm we want to be your best organizing buddy when you are short or time and brain space.
Our mission is to help you let go of the physical clutter and help you have space for what is most important to you in your life, right now. Time is a finite resource, and how we manage it greatly influences our overall quality of life. Effective time management and organization not only increase productivity but also reduce stress, enhance focus, and create opportunities for personal growth and enjoyment. When we strike the right balance, we can achieve our goals without sacrificing our well-being.
Set Clear Goals and Priorities
The foundation of successful time management lies in setting clear goals and priorities. Identify what matters most to you in both your professional and personal life. Break down your goals into smaller, manageable tasks, and assign them priorities based on their urgency and significance. This approach prevents you from feeling overwhelmed and helps you focus on what truly matters. If you are interested in Goal Setting for 2024 I encourage you to invest in a planner. There is something about pen and paper in slowing down your thoughts in concisely thinking about what is truly attainable. If you want to know my goal setting strategy, send us a DM on our Instagram and say “Strategize” for our monthly scoop.
Practice the Two-Minute Rule
The two-minute rule, coined by productivity expert David Allen, suggests that if a task can be completed in two minutes or less, do it immediately. This approach prevents small tasks from piling up and cluttering your to-do list. By addressing these quick tasks promptly, you free up mental space for more substantial tasks.
Learn to Lean and Delegate
Recognize that you don't have to do everything yourself. Delegate tasks that can be done by others, whether at work or home. Delegating not only lightens your workload but also empowers others to contribute and grow. Track your time for one week and then make a list of what you actually did. Personally I love doing this with time blocking and using a visual timer like this one.
Practice Digital Detox
Constant connectivity can lead to information overload and decreased productivity. Designate specific times for checking emails and social media, and consider implementing regular digital detox periods to recharge and refocus. A great practice is by going through your photos at the beginning or end of each month. Share your highlights online. You will always have a copy. I’m working on prepping a Digital Photo Declutter Guide to come out this fall. I’m with you in needing to purge.
Prioritize Self-Care
Remember that time management isn't just about work-related tasks. Prioritize self-care activities such as exercise, relaxation, spending time with loved ones, and pursuing hobbies. Taking care of yourself enhances your overall well-being and boosts your productivity in the long run. Part of our weekly team meeting with our Asheville Organizers is asking them, how will you take care of yourself this week? I’m challenging you to do the same.
I could talk about this topic all day with our clients, followers, and community. If you want to join our Organizer Insider Community, click here. Until we talk again.
Take care of yourself.
With Intention,
Green Mountain Space Team
