Something that's saving my life right now
I’ve enjoyed reading Free to Focus by Michael Hyatt. The book has so many good nuggets about time management and productivity, but one thing from the book is saving my life right now: The Daily Big 3.
The Daily Big 3 are the three tasks that really matter for the next day. I know I could make a list of twenty things I want to accomplish, but focusing on three key tasks gives me a sense of 100% accomplishment every day. With it comes a sense of peace that I have completed the work that I set out to do for the day. And because I know that I have completed my tasks before dinner, I am able to disengage from work and focus on my family. I am more relaxed knowing my work is done.
I realize making a list isn't all that earth-shattering, but making a short list makes a big difference for me. I also write it out the night before so that when I sit down to work I can get right at it. I know I have all this stuff —gestures wildly— to get done, but I am not always sure where to start. With my lists done the day before, I know exactly what I need to get done. They help me stay on task so that I am not tempted to aimlessly scroll through social media. And bonus—I find that a list of three things is completely manageable. A list of three things is not overwhelming.
Free to Focus is geared for working professionals. I have a job in sales, so I use The Daily Big 3 for work tasks, but I also apply the concept to my tasks at home. I make a Daily Big 3 for tasks that are above and beyond what are considered "daily chores."
Here’s how it works for me. Around 4:30 every afternoon I make two lists. I name the first, "Top 3 for Home." I name the second, "Top 3 for Work". Then I write my Daily Big 3 for both categories. And because I love to check things off, I also draw a little checkbox next to each task.
Some examples of things that I include on this list are:
- scheduling an appointment (I have such issues with taking the time to do this!)
- running a particular errand
- returning a call from the doctor
- completing a load of laundry (I don't have a set laundry day)
- a particular chore that rotates each week
- making that phone call I‘ve been putting off
- a larger cleaning/organizing project (like wiping baseboards or cleaning part of the garage)
Then I shut down my computer and close my planner. My tasks are now out of sight and out of mind, which means I am ready to enjoy the evening without any worry about unfinished tasks. The sense of simple accomplishment means I am free to focus (as the name of the book says) on what matters most to me.
If you are interested in reading Free to Focus for yourself (which I highly recommend!), you can find it here.
Something that has been saving my life since 2014...
Ok, maybe it's not exactly saving my life, but it is saving money and simplifying the work of house cleaning. Simplified, you say? Yes. In the past cleaning would require a multi-purpose cleaner, a toilet bowl cleaner, a dusting spray, a magic eraser, a tile cleaner, a floor cleaner, and who knows what else. The cost of all those products add up quickly.
Thieves Household Cleaner is one, concentrated cleaner suitable for every surface of your home. All you have to do is get a few spray bottles to mix water with Thieves Household Cleaner. I like to use these spray bottles, but you could certainly get something more fancy like these.
The other benefit of Thieves Household Cleaner is that it doesn't leave me with a headache after I'm done cleaning. I had tried other green/clean brands like 7th Generation and Mrs. Meyers, but their added fragrance always left me feeling kind of gross. Also, after doing a little digging I was fairly certain they weren't as safe as was claimed.
Thieves Household Cleaner is a safe, versatile cleaning solution created with Thieves Essential Oil and naturally occurring surfactants derived from coconut and sugars. No harsh chemicals necessary. I use it on literally every surface of my home. One bottle lasts me about 6 months and comes in under $23. It's pretty rare to see me using the same cleaner for seven years, but since Thieves Household Cleaner has made cleaning much less simpler and I feel confident about all of it's ingredients, it's safe to say I've found a keeper!
Here's a little recipe sheet with some of my most used Thieves Cleaner dilution rates.
Snippets of My Week
Caleb and I have both read this book. Recommended.
Extra fancy donuts for a Saturday morning treat while the bigger girls were gone.
In-n-Out is always a stop when "The Cousins" come for a visit.
Hiking at Joshua Tree National Park.
Thanks for reading! I would love to hear what little tip is saving your life right now—big or little! If it's saving you time and sanity, I would love to hear about it. Just hit reply if you’d like to share. I read all your messages and try to respond, but not always in a timely manner. Sorry! And if you enjoyed this email, you’d be doing me a favor by forwarding it to someone else who might like it.