How to Reduce Stress and Burnout by Planning Ahead!
I want to share with you a few tips regarding time management and productivity to live a less stressful lifestyle.
Are you a planner or more a ‘go with the flow’ type of person? I am a planner by nature. I enjoy planning ahead for the year, month, week, day, my tasks, trips, finances, and fun. I also enjoy being spontaneous on the weekends.
When it comes to the types of planning systems, I use a mixture of products. They include the Google Calendar, Happy Planner and my own personal printables created on Canva. Doing a little planning ahead for the day, week, and month can help reduce future stressors and stay organized.
Sometimes, plans don’t work out as we hoped. In those cases, we must adjust accordingly.
“Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” Proverbs 19:21
I believe God does call us to be wise with our time. And plan. Especially for emergencies and finances.
As we go into the new season of Summer, it’s a wonderful season to rest, have fun and enjoy time with family and friends.
Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans. Proverbs 16:3
Suggestion toward Planning Ahead!
· Monthly planning (Calendar, events, finances, and monthly budget)
· Weekly and daily planning
· Meal plan
· Appointments/meetings
· Bills and finances
· Kid’s schedule
· Work schedule
· Special events: birthdays, holidays, parties, and events etc.
PRIORITIZE YOUR TIME & PLAN AHEAD
Prioritize and plan out your day, schedule and make a daily to do list. I also suggest reviewing your calendar before bedtime so you know what is happening the next day. I have made this a part of my nightly routine.
ELIMINATE DISTRACTIONS TO STAY PRODUCTIVE
It can be easy to get distracted that is why I love time blocking, setting time limits and use of an alarm clock. I also find it helpful to put the phone away, stay off social media and figure out what are your distraction weak spots.
DELEGATE OFTEN
Look for the opportunities to delegate specific tasks to others in your family, at work, and teams. If needed, hire help.
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF & SELF CARE
Be sure to get enough sleep, eat right, manage stress, and get proper exercise. I seem to forget tasks when I am overly tired. Take the time that is needed to rest and Sabbath.
AVOID BURNOUT & OVERSCHEDULING
If you are anything like me, I can overschedule myself and then fall into burnout mode. Over the last few years, I pause before I make commitments. I have learned that less is best. Dear friends, it is ok to say no.
My favorite planners:
2. Erin Condren
Digital Planning
· Google Calendars
· Google Tasks
· Outlook Calendar
· Create your own calendar Printables on Canva
I would love to hear from you. What tips do you have around planning.
Till next time,
Lisa Hice
FOLLOW ALONG ON SOCIAL MEDIA
