I’m going to assume you are a busy woman if you’re reading this. I’m going to also assume that you are reading this because you want to be better at managing time, focusing on the right tasks, and being more intentional.
I love all the roles I have (wife, mother, author, etc) but years ago I was unsure how to manage “all the things”. God helped me find a rhythm for daily tasks and to be productive without burning out. I pray these will help you be more productive and intentional in life and ministry.
Tip #1: Don’t Mirror.
In other words, don’t try to copy someone else’s productive plans or energy. Our personalities, lifestyle, and life seasons aren’t all the same. For example, the time I’m the most productive during the day may not be the same as a young college student. They might come alive at night to tackle what they need to do. That would not work for me right now at all.
Her time will not look like my time.
If I try to copy how she is productive in her life, it might not yield positive results for me. Actually, it might do the complete opposite! Know yourself and the times you feel most ready to be present.
Tip#2: Be Realistic.
Sometimes I get inspired to be more productive, carve out this huge plan to revamp my entire schedule, and then soon find that nothing is sticking. Ever been there? Being intentional is one thing but follow through is another.
Make a list of what NEEDS to get done for the day. Not a wish list.
If you have to create two lists, then do it. Put the most pressing tasks (with an actual deadline or urgency) on one list, and then tasks you’d like to tackle on another list. When looking at NEED list, think about the time stamps throughout the day that make sense for you to accomplish that goal.
It’s important to be honest about your time, schedule and workload. There are some things we shouldn’t put off, but most things we can. We just don’t want to.
Tip #3: Give Grace
We seriously don’t extend grace enough to ourselves like we should, forgiving our shortcomings, and unmet expectations. Even if the work gets done, it’s counter-productive to your mental and spiritual health when you don’t give yourself grace.
You cannot be productive by constantly shaming yourself.
God’s mercies are new every single day. This includes mercy for you. Our plans and what we need to do might overwhelm us. We feel like we can’t measure up. It’s in those moments of anxiousness, that we must do better at giving ourselves grace. Prioritize forgiving yourself for the things you didn’t do and let it go.
Spending time with God and praying IS productive.
The Lord has given us grace, to bring peace, especially in moments that feel chaotic. Sometimes the best thing to do is to set the list down and find a quiet spot to talk to Jesus. Even if it’s only for five minutes. If you find that ungratefulness, bitterness, and grumbling are taking over your communication throughout the day, it’s time to pause and spend a little time with Jesus.
Understand that unmet expectations of yourself may not be aligned with God’s expectations of you.
