Today is the first day all of my kids are back in school full time. That also means it’s my first full day back in the office. We had a wonderful summer together but let me be honest, trying to run a business while also playing summer camp director for four kids is intense. I spent much of the summer thinking, “Thank goodness I have the ability to be with them” and also, at the very same time, “Holy shit, when am I ever going to get everything done!?” And now, upon reflection, it all went by so fast. Give it back, please! Let me be laughing at the pool with my babies.
But here we are. Another school year started, the weather getting ever cooler and we’re already talking about Halloween costumes. Someone once said to me the days are long but the years are short. That could not be truer.
Studies have long shown that staying focused on a thing gives it life. If that thing is a new business or a client’s project, give it your full attention. If it is slowing down in the morning and not checking social media until after the kids are off to school, give it your full attention. If it is your time for reflection or meditation, give it your full attention. Be here now. That is the fastest way to get where you are going. Trust me on this.
Some of the boundaries I set for myself and my business help me stay present and in the moment during the craziness of the summer. A few of my favorites are…
One of the ways I remind myself to stop, take it all in and stay present is through manifestation tattoos from Conscious Ink. I love that they can be changed and give me whatever reminder I need each week.
Batch task my to-do list. I work on only one project at a time and let everything else fit into its own place on the list.
Don’t allow distractions to own me. I turn off notifications and don’t rush to check email or text messages when they come in. I build in time for this in my daily schedule.
Take breaks. If I am feeling stuck or unmotivated, I change my surroundings, take a walk or just give myself a few minutes to step away.
Leave my cell phone behind. Because having boundaries in my personal life is as important as having them in my business life, I often leave my cell phone at home when I walk to the park with the kids or I put it away in a drawer when I sit down to do a puzzle or play a game with them. See my two-part blog post on work-life balance for more on this here.
My challenge to you right now is to find a way to be where you are. Feel the things happening around you and truly experience them. Whether it is work, family, self-care or friendships, do yourself a favor and stay right here. Be present.
