No Husband Left Behind
HIM & HER — Together (on the Same Page)
[Challenge]
Balancing Priorities
Do you ever feel like you have way too many things to do, and not sufficient time to finish everything? Having to go to work, spend some time with the family, attend church, cleaning the house, grooming the lawn, and so on. And just when you were almost caught up, the vicious cycle begins all over again.
[What]
You really should take a moment right now and begin to list out the most important things which “must” be scheduled this week. Not necessarily things other people are nagging you to do for them. This list should start with whatever you value the most. Income-producing work will probably be a given. What else do you feel is worth at least one hour of your time every single week?
If you are starting to work on that priority list, be certain time with your spouse is listed. Even after marriage, a “Date Night”, or “shared” meal together at home, or anything you both enjoy. If you have children living at home, remember to integrate them in as well. “Game Night” can be fun for the entire family.
Honestly, there are so many “possible” priorities for your list. Try not to gather too many things to do, otherwise you may get discouraged or worn out. Let us consider just a few more possibilities. How about ministry work at your local church? Or even, helping out your favorite “neighbor” or best “friend”. Time for Bible study and prayer are usually important for Christians. Maybe a hobby or interest you enjoy alone, or shared with your other half.
[When]
Since work is generally considered very important while earning income to pay the bills, you will want to block out your required days and times. Remember, you have the rest of the day to plan whatever you feel is important. Probably worth picking a day and time to commit to your most desired people, events, and things.
Perhaps any “commitments” that must get done should be listed out now. Of course, you will want to spend more time with certain people, like your spouse. And you will surely enjoy more time for your “favorite” hobbies and interests. At times, you may only have an hour or less, but definitely worth writing down (to not forget).
Even though you have morning, afternoon, evening and night every day, you do not have to be fully booked. With seven days a week, your goal is to be certain that your priorities are getting “completed”. Whatever you feel is important, should be getting done. Oh, and please do remember that you are welcomed to cross off any “less” important and “insignificant” things from your list.
[How]
If you do not already have a designated tool where all of your most important items get listed, pick something you will enjoy using every day. Maybe a calendar or notebook if you like manually writing ideas down. Your computer or phone will also work well. The important thing is to identify “one” place for everything important.
After you have scheduled your “routine” commitments (work, etc.), then you are able to focus on the “fun” stuff. Be sure to plan “your” most important things “first”, each and every single day. This is critical, before everyone else begins pulling you in every possible direction. Your priorities are important, and must get scheduled first.
At times, our plans may have to be changed. Something is bound to happen to cause you to miss something really important. Automobile trouble can be frustrating, especially when you just do not have time right now. Try to never worry about those frustrations or distractions when they come. Simply re-schedule interruptions for another day later this week, if possible.
From one who forever remains…
“Under the Shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1),
Shawn Episcopo
Christian Community for Married Men and Women — (Knights) & (Damsels)