Dear Linda,

Thank you for your thoughtful response. When it comes to making wise choices and creating balance in your life, you are amazing. You are clear and decisive. You don’t only help your clients to achieve the level of life balance they wish for, but you walk your talk. That’s what makes you so good at what you do.

My warmest congratulations to you and Steve for your “other anniversary!” What a beautiful landmark and on December 31st no less. I think it’s wonderful that you two decided to keep that evening for you alone! Here’s to many more celebrations of your special day of finding each other again.

As I sit to write, next to me are two lists. They aren’t the ones you mentioned, but other ones. The first is my digital task list which cues me what to attend do each day. This helps me narrow my focus on a daily basis. The items are comprised of single one-and-done type tasks and cues to work on long term projects.

The second list is a handwritten chart of “Upcoming Projects” which includes workshops and a volunteer project for the next four months. At a glance I can see the tiny next steps needed to move each one along and the bigger arch or timeline for when things are due.

Using these two lists along with my calendar help me to choose what I will invite in, release, or say “no” to.

It’s also not just about projects and tasks. In my calendar, I make sure to include white space and quiet days to bounce back from fuller days, social engagements, and happenings. It’s how I create balance in my life.