Settings Goals
I started writing about fresh starts because of some of the things I've been experiencing in my own home, as life has gotten even busier with the birth of my daughter in May. I've had to think of ways to "make it work" and plan out my time better. Most of my time management struggle has been with housekeeping, so that's what I'm going to share. But I think these principles can be applied to any area of discipline or relationship in our lives.
I've learned that people have different personalities, strengths and weakness, when it comes to housekeeping, as well as in life outside the home. I'm one of those people who- if I don't keep "on top" of things- my house can go to shambles in a second! I've been trying for the past couple years to build better habits, especially in the midst of caring for my growing family. Last week my husband paid me the biggest compliment, saying that he can tell how especially hard I've been working these last several months in our home. He said he can see changes in our home and in me. It was so encouraging!
Each one of us is unique. We don't need to do things exactly the same way. But here are some general thoughts and things I've learned about Setting Goals, that I'd love to share with you:
1. Decide what YOUR biggest "Priorities" are, and try to accomplish them every day. That's a great place to start, and you can build upon it.
For me, it's housekeeping- the dishes and having the entire main living area generally picked up the end of the night, including all toys.
2. Keep a daily schedule. It can be detailed or a general guideline.
I'm one of those "creative types," and awhile back I was almost afraid of making a daily schedule. I thought, "That's sooo boring, and it's going to drive me crazy doing the same thing every day!" Well, I've found that with a 2 year old, following a basic schedule for our day has not only helped my sanity, but it's helped to give my son some structure. It's also helped me to get more housework done during the day. I do schedule in time to get out of the house with the kids at least two or three times during the week, that's so important.
3. If your house all of a sudden "explodes," just focus on getting caught up. Don't worry about the extra stuff, like deep cleaning projects. Don't spread yourself too thin, just do the dishes and pick up the house.
This happened to me a couple weekends ago. We had illness, overall exhaustion and total sleep deprivation from babies. So my husband and I ended up just hanging out, resting and watching movies. It was the weekend, right?! Well, on Monday morning I realized that my house had become a disaster zone! I focused on just picking up the house and getting caught up that day. Actually it might have taken even a day and a half, but best decision ever.
The Best Advice in the World...about Setting Goals
I heard a story about a very successful businessman who claims, "Every day I come in and set three goals that I want to accomplish. Just three." At first I thought that was crazy, but I've since learned what a fabulous thought that is. I love to write to-do lists, so I used to sit down and write a dozen things down, then burn out and not understand why I didn't finish it. Maybe you already have a daily chore list, or maybe you are new to these kind of goals. I'm still learning myself. Start with a few attainable goals, things that you know you can get done. It that becomes way too simple, you can always add from there.
Don't spend extra energy dwelling on what was left behind. I don't believe God wants us to spend time dwelling on our past and living with guilt about shortcomings. Spend a good amount of time reflecting on how you are doing things. See areas you need to grow. Between you and the Lord, tell him about the areas in which you want to improve. Then move forward, with His help.
Set your goals, and start again!
-Taylor
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