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A to Z Organize Me
Phone: 832.723.6523 E-mail: allison@atozorganizeme.com Website: www.atozorganizeme.com |
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A to Z Organize Me |
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Articles - Excuse me. Do You Have the Time? (May 2006) |
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“Excuse me. Do you have the time?” I don’t mean “the time” in the clock sense. What I am specifically talking about is your time. Ask yourself these questions: What are all of the activities you are involved in? What are all the commitments you have said “yes” to? Do you feel stretched in every direction and to the limit?
Don’t get me wrong. I am all about volunteering and making a difference in our children’s lives and communities. I volunteer with some organizations in Houston and at my children’s schools. I know my limits and work around all the other daily activities with my kids, house, and job. It took me time to find the balance and I made mistakes along the way. I am writing this article for you to think about setting boundaries that work for you. Life is a balancing act. Balancing everything in your life is different than your neighbors or friends balancing their own lives. Think hard about the commitments you have made this past year and how you felt. If it was a relatively smooth year, then maybe you can handle what you say “yes” to. That is great!! If it was a struggle, that is okay too. We aren’t perfect and a lot is expected of us. Before you say “yes” to a commitment, find out what is required in your time. Take some time to think about what is being asked of you and get back to that person. If you already have too much going on in your life, just say “I am sorry, but I can’t do_________ at this time. Thank you for asking me though.” Another alternative is to offer time to help that works for you. For example, if you don’t have time in your schedule to meet weekly to plan on a committee, offer your time to help decorate for the event or offer to help clean up. To stop feeling rushed, tired and pulled in 100 different ways, you must tell people no. It is not a poor reflection on you, so try to stop feeling guilty when you turn someone down.
When you turn down a project, volunteer opportunity, or a friend don’t sweat it. There will be plenty of other opportunities in your life to volunteer or help out. Instead, take the time to work on you, your house, or your personal projects that have been building up. You know that sooner or later the phone will ring and another person will ask if you have the time to decorate, serve on a board, head a committee, represent a grade level, bake goodies, address invitations, be team mom, etc…
Life is like a pie. There are large and small pieces, but only a certain amount of pie. That is similar to life. There are only so many things you can do. Your life has a limited amount of pieces. There is only so much you can do and still be relaxed and happy. Don’t forget to make time for yourself to do something for you. Save yourself a piece of your pie. And don’t forget to enjoy it.
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