Lately, I’m more in strategic subtraction mode than adding on. What can I eliminate and things still work? The Christmas season – more invitations, more plans, more expectations. And yet presence and focus thrive on simplicity.
If I say “Yes” to something, I say “No” to something else. So by saying yes to all the conflicting To-do-s. What am I saying no to? Peaceful presence? Enjoying the moment?
I didn’t always think this way.
There was a time when I had enough time and energy to do everything. Then kids came. And I wanted to be present with them. At the same time, I still wanted to grow businesses, reach goals, and not lose myself in the process.
So doing less — but more meaningful things — became more necessary.
For me, as a coach, the question is often the answer 🙂 So every once in a while, when I have managed to get myself tangled into too many activities and feel I am running around instead of strategically choosing, I conduct a brief time/energy/activity audit.
1. Energy leaks
What in my life consistently drains more energy than it gives?
What could be eliminated or simplified here? Energy leaks compound faster than time leaks. What tasks I am doing because i feel “i should” but I dont enjoy them, i dont have time for them? What am i saying no to by still choosing to do these tasks?
2. Alignment with my current season
Complexity often comes from living multiple life chapters at once.
What old goals, expectations, or identities can I let go of to make room for what’s next? For example – at this season in our lives, we dont send hand-written Christmas cards. Instead, we try to keep our friends in mind throughout the year. Maybe, when seasons change, we take this up again.
Is this aligned with who I am now? Or is it a leftover from a past identity, goal, or expectation?
3. “If this wasn’t already in my life, would I actively choose it again?”
If the answer isn’t a clear yes, then simplify, reduce, or remove. Its probably a thing of the past lingering.
4. Priorities:
What 20% of habbits and commitments give me 80% of results?
What 20% of people give me 80% of emotional joy?
Protect the essential few. Otherwise they get consumed by the other 80%.
Not “how do I fit more in?” but: “What needs to go so I can get what i want?”