Planning for the period you are in
- Mona Vanns
- Mar 11
- 2 min read
Do you find yourself being pulled in different directions when things are not in the usual routine? Are you still trying to work in the same way you normally do?
It’s a juggle at the best of times, but when you have dependants, kids, aging parents, pets, or whatever it may be, a change to the norm impacts what you can achieve. How often do you account for that when you are either planning your time or managing the expectations you have in what you can do?
I have found that once I started to let go of the idea that I would be able to get all the usual things done during the school holidays and began to manage the expectations of those I worked with and myself, I was less stressed and actually better focused on getting things done.
Planning for the period you are in creates a shift in how you do things and also gives you the opportunity to use your time in a different way. For instance, during school holidays, I plan more to give myself more time to family and home stuff, I adjust my work schedule to accommodate these changes. This way, I can be present for my family while still meeting my work commitments and providing the endless snacks needed to fuel us all!
Another key aspect is communication. Letting your colleagues and clients know about your adjusted schedule can help manage their expectations and reduce the pressure on you. It’s also important to be flexible and adapt to unexpected changes. Life with dependants is unpredictable, and being able to adjust your plans on the fly can make a big difference.
Finally, don’t forget to take care of yourself. Being gentle with yourself is crucial, especially during busy periods. Whether it’s a short walk, a quiet cup of tea, or a few minutes of meditation, taking time can help you stay grounded and more effective in managing your load.
By planning for different periods of the year and adjusting your expectations, you can create more balance and less stress. Remember, it’s not about doing everything perfectly, but about finding a rhythm that works for you and your family.
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