Segment “urgent” from “important”

Burnout often comes from trying to keep pace with the demands of others. “Urgency” references the timeframe when something needs to be done and “importance” is how relevant it is. While there are real emergencies, the old adage “your poor planning shouldn’t constitute my emergency” becomes a helpful litmus test. When the “ASAP” requests come, try clarifying the request and timeline, asking, “What kind of flexibility do we have with this?” or “Will there be another opportunity in the near future that would give us more time to prepare?” Slowing the train down a bit might help open other possibilities or at least raise awareness around the effect of such requests for the future.

Know your rhythms and plan around them

I often write these columns while on a plane. Why? Because it won’t happen when the kids are around or during a Zoom-filled workday. Trapped in my tin cage, though, I am always desperate for something creative to do on a flight. I have time to think. What are the times of day or settings you're most creative or productive? When possible, plan the hard or complex tasks for those times.

Tap into the important every day

If we are constantly reacting to what’s urgent to others, we rarely get to those meaningful projects or tasks for us – those things that not only move our contribution to the next level but also feed our motivation. As you plan your week, try to carve out some buckets, even if only for 30 minutes each day, for you to reflect on an important project or take the next step in a significant undertaking.

By adding some intentionality to your daily and weekly planning and helping others think through what they’re asking of you, you can collaborate with the Lord in bringing you the peace he desires for you.