Yes, my life is crazy. For those who do not know me, I teach at two universities (at one of them, I am full-time), write a blog, write for SheKnows and co-own a craft business with my mother. I pretty much work seven days a week. I don’t necessarily work whole days, but for the most part, I put in some semblance of work every day. So, why am I telling you this? So many people have asked me how it is that I manage to do all of what I do on an everyday basis that I thought I perhaps I should write a little something to get it out there. Really, it’s simple. Organization is crucial.
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1. A planner is key
I prefer the “old school” type where you actually have to write things into the planner, but an electronic calendar on a mobile phone would work as well.
2. Write it all down
It’s my personal mantra that if it’s not in my planner, it’s probably not going to get done. Even the things that I need to do on an everyday basis (like grading) are scheduled. Like I said, if it’s not there, it’s not getting done.
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3. Prioritize
Keep a list for yourself (separate from your daily to-do list) that has all of the long term things that you’d like to accomplish. Repainting the living room, for example. These things (either in piece or as a whole) can be added into your daily life when extra time is available.
4. Don’t be afraid to ask for help
This is where assistants or co-workers are critical. I’ll admit it, I used to be much more of a control freak. You know that person at work who always seems to be a fair bit busier than everyone else — likely because they are in the mindset of if they don’t do it, it won’t get done? That person is me. Well, was me. I have an assistant now who helps me tremendously. If there are things that I can pass off to him, I do. It took me a while to get there, but I now realize that I am not Superwoman.
5. Make sure that you schedule time for yourself
This one is probably the most crucial of all. If you don’t keep your own battery recharged, it is unlikely that you will be able to accomplish everything that you want to accomplish. The “recharging” can be something even as simple as having a glass of wine while you watch one of your favorite shows.
Most importantly, you have to believe in yourself. Remember back to when you were a kid and your parents told you that you could accomplish anything that you put your mind to? They were right, you can — sometimes. It just takes a little organization.
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