Paring Down, Staying Sane: Introduction

Did your mom ever scold you when you were a kid for having eyes that were bigger than your stomach? That's how I feel when I think about all the things I'd love to have done today, this week, this month. So much I'd like to get done, and sometimes I get frustrated or impatient as I'm sure you do, too. I also know that if I try to take it all on, I'll end up with cold unappealing leftovers on my plate or I'll burn myself out and be no use to anyone. Even people who strike a good balance here most of the time sometimes fall prey to miscalculation, denial, or idealism and bite off more than they can chew at times.

There is no magic bullet for this one; the laws of physics set up constraints on time and space that are rather hard to fight. Addressing this dilemma with grace takes making choices and doing work.

Paring down can be a key element of successful time managment, and make you happier, more effective and less stressed out. Here are some principles to keep your body, rather bound to the limitations and joys of this time and space, in line with your wishful heart and ambitious head:

• Commit to less, and make wise choices about your commitments.
• Use the energy of your excitement strategically.
• Choose empowering perspectives.
• Be efficient in what you do, and invest in your effiency itself.
• Track separately the things you may be ready to commit to later.
• Let go with an easy heart.
• Take care of yourself, too. Dare I say, take care of yourself, first.