I Choose to Make Time

My time is limited. I will prioritize my non-negotiables first, before anything else.

Have you ever heard the saying, “If you want something done, give it to a busy person.” Why do you think that is? I can’t speak for everyone else, but here is why it is true for me. The more I have to do (want to do or asked to do) the more efficient I am with my time. It is when I have extra time I procrastinate, get caught up in busy work or time wasters and the next thing I know hours are gone. Whether I am busy or not, I make an effort to establish the things in my life I consider non-negotiable and make time in my schedule to complete them.

Non-negotiable time is an essential aspect of our lives and a commitment we make to ourselves. It refers to the dedicated moments that we intentionally set aside for ourselves, our well-being, and the things that truly matter to us. It is the time that we should prioritize and protect, recognizing its significance in maintaining balance, fulfillment, and personal growth. It may involve engaging in self-care practices, pursuing hobbies, spending quality time with loved ones, or working towards our goals.

My non-negotiables, which have changed over time as my family, friends and career have changed, include “me time” (including exercise, journal, quiet time, and personal purpose activities), “family time” (dinners, vacations and daily quality time) and “friend time” (weekly or monthly quality time). Every couple of months I reflect on my non-negotiables to see if they are still relevant, and I prioritize the most important ones and pre-schedule the time in my day, week or month to complete. As example years ago while my kids were at home, I reserved 6 until 9 every weeknight and spent time on dinner, sports, playing games, and activities that involved my kids. No work or phone interruptions. Now I reserve 60 minutes every morning just for me including exercise and journaling.

This Blog is part of our Choose for Yourself 21-Day Challenge. Chick HERE to learn more.

Simple Acts of Time Management

Establishing non-negotiables and making time for what truly matters is an important practice for prioritizing our well-being and achieving our goals. Here’s an exercise to help you establish your non-negotiables and make time for them:

Reflect on your values and priorities: Take some time to reflect on what truly matters to you in life. Consider your core values, passions, and the activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Write them down and prioritize them based on their significance in your life.
Identify your non-negotiables: From your list of values and priorities, identify the key areas that you consider non-negotiable. These are the aspects of your life that you are committed to making time for, regardless of other demands or distractions. It could be self-care, family time, personal growth, or any other area that holds great importance to you.
Assess your current schedule: Take a close look at your current schedule and how you spend your time. Identify any activities or commitments that may be taking up unnecessary time or not aligning with your non-negotiables. Consider areas where you can make adjustments or eliminate activities that do not align with your priorities.
Block dedicated time for non-negotiables: Once you have identified your non-negotiables, block dedicated time in your schedule for each of them. Treat these time blocks as sacred and non-negotiable. It could be setting aside specific hours for self-care, designating family time, or scheduling regular sessions for personal growth activities.
Communicate boundaries: Communicate your boundaries and non-negotiables to those around you. Let your loved ones, colleagues, and friends know about the importance of these activities in your life. Set clear expectations and ask for their support in respecting your dedicated time.
Evaluate and adjust: Regularly evaluate how well you are honoring your non-negotiables and making time for them. Assess if any adjustments need to be made to your schedule or if certain activities need to be reprioritized. Be flexible and open to adapting your routine as needed.

Remember, establishing non-negotiables and making time for what truly matters requires commitment and conscious effort. By prioritizing your values and setting boundaries, you can create a schedule that aligns with your priorities and allows you to live a more fulfilling and balanced life.

Your Turn: Time

You don’t find time, you make time.

Become Aware

Take a couple minutes to write down your current non-negotiables. Reflect and update your list as needed.
Do you make the time every day to complete your list?
Have areas of your life been impacted by not having a list and not making time?
Notice any observations (gaps, triggers, patterns, and situations) that interrupt your ability to complete your non-negotiables.
Acknowledge your (observation) and its (insert impact)

I am aware ______________________ and it’s _________________________.

Be Grateful

Identify one observation you want to become aware of and use as a reminder.
What is the mindset you want to have once you become aware.
Change your perspective, be grateful for (insert observation), because it reminds you to (insert mindset).

I am grateful ________________________ and because I can __________________________.