simple life habits

So far in this series, we have discussed areas where we can develop a few simple life habits that will improve our lifestyle and keep it uncomplicated. Today, we continue by reviewing some simple time management practices.

So teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom. (Psalm 90:12, NKJV)

Time is our most precious resource. Today matters for the today and when today is gone is it lost forever. As such time is highly valued but sometimes in an effort to maximize our time we get too busy.

However busyness does not mean productivity nor does being productive mean your life must be hectic. Simply put, being productive involves knowing what to do and doing it. It requires knowing how to make the best use of your time.

How is your life right now – hectic or productive? Whatever your answer, check your life and consider what you can drop from your schedule.

Learn to say ‘No’ at times and mean it. You can’t be involved in every church activity or social event. You may even need to say ‘No’ to a personal project you’ve been doing. It may not be the right fit now.

While you may opt of a few activities, you may need to say ‘Yes’ to yourself. Give yourself some personal time for self-care, recreation or relaxation. Say ‘Yes’ to rejuvenating yourself so you can be more effective in fulfilling your purpose.

Consider some of these time management habits:

Simple Life Habits	For Everyday Success
Plan your day. Write down 4-7 things you want to accomplish the next day. However, leave room for contingencies.	You will gain clarify since you know what to do. You’ll be a more focused and driven person.
Speak success over your day. Tell God your plans and ask Him to bless your day.	You will experience favor wherever you go. Even when challenges arise, you will be confident and be able to overcome them.
Acknowledge that time is a priceless commodity that is spent even if you don’t use it wisely.	You will value your time and that of others. You will treasure moments with family and friends.
Give yourself 24 hours before commitment to anything new.	This will help you to avoid over committing yourself.
Evaluate your day. Did you accomplish what you planned? Did you slack off or did you have to deal with the unexpected?	You may not always check off everything on your list but the benefit is that you remain focused and can recoup the next day.

Set aside some time to determine if your use of time correspond with your goals. One way you can track your time is to keep a journal. Record the time for each of your activities at work, at home, at church, on the road, etc. After a week or two evaluate how much time is spent on what matters most to you. With this information in hand you can then re-arrange your schedule to align with your goals.

Share what you have learnt about yourself while tracking your time and how you will improve your time management.

Until next time,

Keep life simple.