May has always been a busy month. A time when school ends, graduations take
place, wedding invitations arrive. Then there's Mother’s Day. And in my life, there are numerous friends and
family birthday. I feel as
though I’m being pulled in all directions.
So with that in mind, I decided
to make a plan:
1.
Prioritize:
What event is most important? Who is most important? I was raised going to church and grew up
prioritizing God, family, then career/school.
What comes next is up for debate.
The family pet, neighbors and friends, staying engaged on social media,
PTA or myself usually follow. However
putting oneself last is never the best idea.
2.
Give Your Undivided Attention:
I recently started reading Jab, Jab, Jab, Right Hook by Gary Vaynerchuck and he says, “There’s no such thing as undivided attention anymore.” One only has to look around to know that it’s true. We see it everywhere. At my kids’ school functions I see parents checking their
email or texting. At weddings I’m sure guests are posting to Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram. In line at the grocery store I see people searching on their smartphones. But stay focused, it will help you build long, lasting memories.
3.
Enjoy the Moment:
When my children were babies older mom’s
often would tell me, “They grow so fast.”
At the time I didn’t believe it.
The sleepless nights can leave one dragging for days. But as my daughters grew older and more
independent, I realized how true that phrase is. Cherish the time spent at your child’s
musical and the moments that make you proud.
 |
| My 10 year-old in Seusical the Musical |
The same can be said for aging parents.
There is a time as adults when we go off and do our own thing, but a
health scare or moment of frailness can leave you with the realization that no
one lives forever. Spend time with mom
and dad. Hold those special moments a second longer than normal.
4.
Take Time for Yourself:
With the graduation and parties taking
place this month, I know I don’t want to look tired and ragged. Go get a facial, workout, get a manicure and
pedicure. Go to the coffee shop by
yourself and read a good book. Spend
time at the mall buying a new outfit, or lock yourself behind closed doors
binging on the series you never got to watch.
But make sure this isn’t an afterthought, plan for it.
Reminding myself to incorporate these four basic principles helps keep my sanity intact and
makes me feel confident about getting through this ridiculously busy month. If I miss a birthday or two, or forget to
walk the dog...it’s going to be okay. I
can always make it up to them and my dog will still love me.
Note: "When Good Enough is Perfect" NEVER comes into play for my professional or school work.
