Busy isn’t a badge of honor (but it is a choice)

It has been 2 months since I last wrote for my blog.  I didn’t forget about writing.  I was busy.  Busy doing things like working with clients, exploring new business ideas, and spending time with family.  I want to clarify:  I wasn’t too busy to write.  I chose not to, and that’s ok.  

So often, we defend our ability to do certain things by proclaiming that we’re “too busy”.  We sure would like to be able to make time for the gym, start a new business, or take a well deserved vacation, but we’ve convinced ourselves that those activities are reserved for people who have more time.  The dirty little secret is no one has more time.  They just choose to prioritize their time differently.  Not better.  Differently.

If you don’t prioritize your time, someone else will.

Time thieves are everywhere!  They are at school, work, church, and even in your own home.  You cannot expect others to respect your time if you don't respect your time.  The next time you’re faced with a task, any task, ask yourself “Is this getting me closer to my goals or values?”.  If not, repeat this mantra:

No is a complete sentence. 

Self care is not a luxury, but a necessity.  

I am enough.  

Use your time wisely, and let go of any guilt and shame surrounding what you think you should be doing with it.  Your values and goals are your own and you do not need to justify them.  Remember:  You alone are responsible for your time, and no one is going to give you more of it.

Aimee Olson of Life Done Simply is a Productivity and Organizing Coach and is a member of the National Association of Productivity & Organizing Professionals (NAPO).