YOUR MID-WEEK PICK-ME-UP

“And you need to begin blogging.” As my publisher offered advice on how to build a platform, all I wanted was a nap because I was already overwhelmed.

What about you? What’s your method for dealing with a massive to-do list?

I prayed about my blog and wanted to be genuine, so for the next 4-6 weeks, I plan on sharing something I struggle with daily, “getting back on track when my schedule derails”.

Just like many other days, today is an “off” day. I, like many, plan my day, but it’s over before I get much done. Would you join me as we learn ...

How can we get back on track when our schedules derail? What contributes to our lack of productivity?

Each week, I plan on sharing approximately 5 things that will help us identify and rectify non-productivity. As we learn how to better manage our time we'll begin making progress and move closer to fulfilling our goals. 

Today, I want to talk about how to stay mentally motivated even when it appears the day was wasted. How can we console our weary minds after adding to the to-do list rather than checking items off? Perhaps these five things will help keep our spirits up as we stare at the overwhelming pile of unfinished tasks.

1) GIVE YOURSELF GRACE. If you’re like me, you’re your number one critic. Maybe everything didn’t get done, but celebrate the progress you made and enjoy the evening with your family.

2) EVALUATE YOUR EXPECTATIONS. Were unrealistic expectations set? While working in the corporate environment, it was pointed out that I put pressure on myself. I have to remind myself to pace myself, do my best, and not expect more than I’m able to give.  

3) PLAN FOR THE UNPLANNED. After much serving, Jesus told the disciples they needed to turn aside and rest for a while.

“And he said unto them, Come ye yourselves apart into a desert place, and rest a while: for there were many coming and going, and they had no leisure so much as to eat” (Mark 6:31).

I found it interesting after Jesus encouraged the disciples to take a break, that we read, “And they departed into a desert place by ship privately …” AND THE PEOPLE SAW THEM DEPARTING … AND RAN AFTER THEM. (Mark 6:32-33). On their way to the desert to rest, the disciples ended up serving over 5,000 men. Don’t be surprised when your plans change. Go with the flow and accept the interruption as a ministry opportunity.

4) STAY IN PACE WITH GOD. – In Matthew 11:28, Jesus beckons us to “Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” Do you schedule breaks throughout your day? I know I can sit for hours at my computer, and before I know it, it’s late afternoon. Set your timer and take frequent energizer breaks.

5) DO WHAT YOU CAN AND CALL IT A DAY. Successful people understand the road to success is paved with detours, delays, and days where nothing is done. Every day may not be perfect, but giving up isn’t the solution. Evaluate that day's activities, i.e., did you procrastinate, were you lazy, were more items added to your list than you could handle, did you waste time on unnecessary tasks, etc.? Do you need to change anything? Make the necessary adjustments, and eventually you'll accomplish your goals.

It’s my prayer that you read something in this blog post that helps you find the calm amid your chaotic schedules. Thank you for “taking the time” to read my blog.

Remember: Life is bigger than us, but it’s not bigger than God. God knows how to “get things done,” so be sure and spend some extra time this week talking to Him about how to manage your time. He has gifted you with all you need to succeed and will lead you to accomplish all He puts into your heart to do.

What about you? What steps do you take to get back on track when your schedule derails? I look forward to reading your comments.

Until next week…

All for His glory,

Billie