7-One less thing

I've never had a problem with procrastination, getting multiple tasks done, organizational skills and the like. In fact, it is quite the opposite. I am somewhat of a boyscout, always prepared for any contingency. I create list of all sorts: grocery lists, lists of books to read, lists of household chores to be performed, ideas for future craft projects, devotions that need to be written, even what I have cooked for dinner. I keep a color coded, detailed family calendar (2 actually)to keep us on track. I am prepared in advance for most needs (I am never one to run to the grocery store at the first threat of snow because I have the 36 rolls of toilet paper in the closet). My pantry and freezer is well stocked. I have craft supplies for any unexpected school project. My gas tank never gets below 1/4 a tank, etc., etc., etc.

Today I carried a purse, a briefcase, my Franklin-Covey Planner and my knitting bag into work with me. Those items probably totaled about 20 extra pounds of stuff. I felt overwhelmed before I even hit my office, thinking of all the incomplete tasks those books, binders and files held. Something's gotta give!

If I am always SO prepared, why do I feel stressed? Something's gotta give...and I have come to the conclusion that all my lists and the desire to be productive is wearing me thin. All the opportunities, incomplete tasks, un-read books, are a burden I am carrying each day. Therefore, I have decided to DO ONE LESS THING this week. I will leave any unnecessary item at home (out of sight), I will leave a load of laundry un-done before I go to work. I will NOT carry the book with 3 pages left to be read in the chapter to work with me and plan to finish it at lunch. I will (try) not to use my lists as a way of controlling life.

Life is what happens while I am busy making lists, squeezing one more task into an already FULL, productive day. This week I will RELAX (it is a check off item on my daily to do list, REALLY!--so I will leave it OFF my to do list), I will LAUGH more, I will HUG more, I will make a conscious effort to "WASTE" time, by not filling every waking moment with a task that needs to be completed.

My mantra will be "ONE less thing"!