Creating Structure in a Chaotic Life

How many of you feel like your life is a series of crises? Putting out fires is your job – but you spend much of your time tired, overwhelmed and frustrated? Believe it or not, it is possible to live a structured life in a chaotic world. I’m Wendy Corr, and in today’s wellness tip, I’ll give you some ideas to gain control of your schedule!

If you don’t know me, my life sounds pretty complex. I’m the news director for the Big Horn Radio Network, which means that I’m up at 3 a.m. every weekday. I’m also a musician, a nutritionist, I do my own healthy food preparation and do regular workouts. Plus I’m a worship leader at my church, I’ve got two grown kids and a close relationship with my parents and grandparents and a supportive circle of friends.

So – pretty complex, right? But I’ve figured out a way to spend quality time wearing each of these hats without feeling stressed out and without dropping the ball for my clients, my family or my coworkers. When you balance time management with proper nutrition and mindfulness, you’re more able to take control of what could be an out of control schedule!

So let’s take a look at a typical day for most people – but through the lens of mindfulness and deliberate choices.

When you wake up, build in a few minutes every morning for prayer, meditation, affirmations, visualization, reviewing your goals.  That sets you up for a more peaceful, more productive day!

Next let’s take a look at your schedule – How packed is it? Be sure to build space between your appointments to allow for the unexpected. And don’t be afraid to delegate tasks or ask to delay deadlines in order to alleviate your stress levels!

Ideally, your lunch break should be a BRAIN BREAK. Of course, lunch meetings in your business may be a regular thing. So if you can’t get a break, at least you can make positive choices!  Choose fruits, vegetables, healthy fats and plenty of fiber at every meal to keep your blood sugar in balance, maintain your energy and work with a clear mind!

And remember that down time is important. How much time do you lose in front of the TV at night, or in front of the computer screen, or scrolling Facebook? Reading a book is a lost art. And with summer nights as beautiful as they are, spending time taking a walk, playing with kids or pets – those are great ways to spend your evening taking a break from the hectic nature of your daily life.

Choosing a few small changes, implemented over time, can make a huge difference in your stress level AND your productivity – and you’ll spend more time doing what matters most to you.

Thanks for tuning in to Wellness with Wendy! For more health and wellness news and advice, follow my blog on mybighornbasin.com.