If you don’t control your schedule, your schedule will control you.
Planning, sometimes can be overwhelming, the to-do-list seems never end.
However, if you don't take proper control of your schedule, it can start controlling you. This can lead to disorganised, haphazard days with little time for things that matter. Planning ahead and setting a routine allow use to manage and reduce stress. Starting with simple things such as a meal plan or exercise plan, can provide a structure for your day.
Skipping a meal or a workout, might not seem like much, but it can throw off your entire day. It's also important to remember things that need to be done, like a medical check-up, and factor them into your schedule. Letting them pile up can cause unnecessary stress and could even lead to health problems in the long run. By being proactive with scheduling, you allow yourself the necessary space to prioritize and balance your day. Remember, it’s up to you to take the reins and shape your own schedule.
How to Relieve Stress: A 5-Step Plan to Feeling Good
#1 Putting it on paper
Stress is a common problem for many people, particularly in today's fast-paced world where time seems to be in short supply. However, there are ways to reduce stress, and one effective approach is to put it on paper. Writing down what needs to be done and prioritising tasks can help to reduce stress as it frees up mental space for more important matters.
#2 Break it down into manageable bit sized chunks
By breaking down larger tasks into smaller manageable ones or grouping them according to order of importance, stress reduction can be more achievable. Additionally, creating a to-do list can be an effective stress reliever that allows you to tick off completed tasks as you go along, giving you a feeling of accomplishment. Putting stress on paper can also help you to organise your thoughts and gain a clearer perspective on difficult situations. So next time you feel overwhelmed, grab a pen and paper and start writing. You never know, it may just be the stress reduction technique you've been looking for.
#3 Prioritise and sort your tasks
Prioritising and sorting your tasks are crucial to effective time management. Having a to-do list is helpful in ensuring that no task is forgotten, but it is equally important to organise them based on importance and urgency. When you prioritise your tasks, it allows you to focus on the ones that truly matter and complete them before moving on to the less important ones. This not only reduces stress but also helps you feel more accomplished with your day.
#4 Easily to say NO
Planning creates a more balanced life by allowing you to focus more on the things that truly matter to you. When you have a plan in place, it is easier to say ‘NO’ to things that do not align with your priorities, and instead, do more of what you want to do. This can help get you to the place you want to be in your personal and professional life.
Additionally, with planning, you are able to give yourself some flexibility and look at the bigger picture instead of getting caught up in the daily details of life. By planning ahead, you can create more opportunities for time that would have otherwise gone to waste. For example, you can schedule time for the gym or cooking healthy meals.
#5 Assign time to plan your week
The most crucial aspect of managing your time is task scheduling.
I find that Sundays work well to set aside time to plan and schedule. Take the tasks from your list and assign a time to complete them. Adding recreational activities to my schedule is crucial, as I tend to neglect fun in my day-to-day life. I recognize the value of play, as it contributes to my overall well-being. Therefore, I include designated play time in my weekly plan. On Sundays, I allocate 20 minutes to organize my upcoming week's agenda, which includes business commitments, household chores, meal preparation, and family outings.
Without scheduling, you may find it challenging to concentrate and switch from one task to another, eventually leaving them unfinished. Allocating time to your tasks will enable you to stay focused on each task individually.
Do what works for you
There's nothing quite like the rush of ticking off every task on your to-do list. It's a power move. When you can see your progress laid out in black and white week after week, you'll feel unstoppable. Your mind will be so zen and focused, you'll breeze through every task like a boss. But let's not get too rigid, shall we? It's crucial to strike a balance between planning and flexibility. Having a plan keeps you on track and organized, but being flexible and open to change is just as important. And, don't skimp on self-care and fun. You're worth it! And if you need a little help along the way, don't be afraid to call in reinforcements.
I've included a weekly schedule and weekly meal planner for you. Don't hesitate to download it!