
As someone who values productivity and living my best life, I’ve been on a journey to manage my time better. It all started when I realized I wasn’t happy with how my schedule was shaping up. That’s when I decided to take action and figure out where my time was really going.
As tedious as it was, tracking how I spent my hours helped me identify areas that needed adjustment. I reflected on whether my time was balanced across self-care, work, family, community, and learning. This exercise was the catalyst for making meaningful changes.
One of the most positive contributing factors has been to leave my phone in another room while I’m sleeping and on Do Not Disturb. Otherwise, I’d reach for it first thing in the morning, and I discovered there were so many other things I wanted to do in the morning. So not only did it rob me of that time, it depleted brain power that I’d need throughout the day.
I developed a structured yet flexible morning and evening routine that works for me. In the mornings, I go to the gym, catch up on the news while on the treadmill, and listen to audiobooks. This routine sets the tone for a productive day. In the evenings, I prioritize quality time with family, a short walk with our dogs, and a relaxing wind-down ritual that includes yoga (like my favorite legs-up-the-wall pose) and gratitude journaling.
Another crucial aspect has been learning to say no to commitments that don’t align with my goals or energy levels. I’ve developed a system where I check in with myself at night to see if I still want to take on a particular task or obligation. If the answer is no, I respectfully decline. This practice has been key in managing stress and avoiding resentment.
Throughout this journey, I’ve learned the art of balancing productivity with self-care. While I strive to be efficient, I also recognize the importance of taking breaks and enjoying simple pleasures like staring at the trees in the backyard. It’s all about finding what works best for me and being mindful of my energy levels.
Looking back, I can confidently say that my schedule now feels ideal. It’s a testament to the power of self-awareness, intentional decision-making, and consistently implementing strategies that align with my values and priorities. While the journey is ongoing, I’m grateful for the progress I’ve made and the ability to share these insights with others seeking a more balanced and fulfilling life.
How do you feel about your balance between productivity and self-care? Consider logging your time, and then let me know how it goes!