It’s Just One Thing

With school starting all around us, staying in balance amidst the chaos can be a challenge.

Have you ever said to yourself, “If only I knew that one thing that could make it all easier?”  I can remember those days, with more to do on your list than can possibly be accomplished and with no sign of “you” on that list.  I have also lived with the consequences of that happening too many days (months) in a row.

With more than 30 years of working with groups of all ages, I find that for most people we already know what that one thing is. (Ouch- but true!) For most people it is something that is fairly simple.

So today let’s begin that one thing that we know makes our day less stressful, more balanced, and certainly more joyful.

Here are some strategies that work:

1. Ask yourself “What is the one thing that makes my day                                  (EX: less stressful; more joyful; have more energy; less chaotic)?
2. Write down all the things that come to mind.  If only one thing comes to mind - then that’s what you will do. If more than one comes to mind, re-read them and one will clearly stand out.
3. Look at it and decide what, whom, and how it benefits. Be specific. Spend some time in quiet and really reflect on how you and others will benefit from this one thing.
4. Look at the timing of your day. Both decide and commit to doing this task daily and determine the timing you are going to do this. Be aware of “fitting” it in. Fitting it in is a sure way to fail at the first sign of chaos.
5. Commit to doing this for 21 days without question.  (If you miss a day, keep going).
6. At the end of this 21 day commitment, really look at what the benefits were and how you can improve upon it.
7. Then, keep doing it.
8. For the brave, repeat this process and really be happy, joyful, healthy and balanced!