The struggle is real. I have responsibilities to keep writing and reading (book club and to support writer friends), but life is full of interruptions.
Actually, being "forced" to socialize is an exaggeration. I'm happy to spend time with family and friends. We don't live in isolation, so activities will come up. This past Friday I was thrilled to watch my grandkids dance. I wouldn't miss that for anything.
However, when you have goals and deadlines, you must learn to be flexible and still accomplish your tasks.
15 tips to get stuff done when you lead a busy life:
Read your Bible and take time to pray. It's ideal to read your Bible daily, but sometimes your schedule doesn't allow it. Don't stress about it, it's not supposed to be a chore, it's part of your ongoing conversation with God. Long ago, I heard a pastor say that reading your Bible is God talking to you and praying is you talking to God. Having time with God daily (yes, pray daily) helps you to clear your mind and focus on what's most important.
Make a list. If you make a list of what needs to be accomplished, you'll be able to order your time more efficiently. Also, it's rewarding to cross off what you've accomplished.
Set realistic expectations. Don't bite off more than you can chew.
Establish deadlines. If you have something that needs to be accomplished but isn't a priority, set a deadline so that the task doesn't hang out on your to-do list forever.
Prioritize your tasks. Decide what's most important on your to-do list and get that biggest task off your list. If you've got a deadline to get something done (clean the powder room before guests arrive), get that done first to get it off your mind. Besides once you get that "big thing" done, it will give you the satisfaction of having accomplished something.
Take short breaks. If you've got a packed day scheduled, be sure to give yourself permission to take a short break to take a walk, read for a few minutes, or just enjoy nature outside your door.
Eliminate clutter. When I've got a lot to accomplish, just seeing clutter can slow me down. Clean up that problem spot and enjoy the simple feeling of relief that you don't have to see it/deal with it.
Learn to say no. Set boundaries. You don't have to do everything that is suggested/asked of you. If you overcommit, you're the one who will pay either in exhaustion or frustration. There are people who will tap you to volunteer too often if you give them the chance. Guard your time and energy.
Break huge tasks into smaller chunks. Break that task into smaller chunks and cross off each component as you go along. For example if, you're having a party write down each appetizer or dish you can make in advance instead of saying, "prepare food" for party.
Eliminate distractions. If you've got a list to accomplish, practice self-control and ignore social media, etc.
Get sufficient sleep. Quality sleep will allow you to function at your best.
Eat healthy snacks. Poor food choices, even if they're convenient, won't help you be your best.
Make tasks more fun. If you're doing something mindless (cleaning, laundry, running errands, etc.) listen to a podcast or music or an audiobook while you work to make it more fun.
Ask for help. Don't be a martyr and try to do it all yourself if there's someone around to chip in and help.
Accept that you're not perfect. Sometimes life just doesn't go your way. Give yourself a break and do better tomorrow.
Being properly organized makes your life less stressful and gives you more time to do things you want to do.
Balance your life and enjoy the blessings!