To start, I just placed a notepad out on my desk for several weeks and jotted things down in either category as I thought of them.
As I look at the list of stealers, I realize that my best strategy is to try to accomplish them as quickly as possible. If I let them linger on my to-do list, I dread the rest of the day. Since I like checking things off a list - I need to make those phone calls and wash the dishes sooner rather than later.
It is a running joke in my family that I prefer quiet. I would ask for the TV to be turned down or off, sometimes even background music steals away my peace. I'm working on being more flexible though - because it can be life-giving to my husband.
Sleep and a hot shower are complete mood-changers for me. Even as a new mom, I tried to at least shower every day. I'm a better mama (and person) with sleep, so the cry-it-out method worked for us when our daughter was around 5 months. Since then, we all usually get a full night's sleep.
I may not be a good mingler, but I do love parties. I've learned to work within my character and don't put pressure on myself to talk with every person in the room. Even at our wedding, we did a meet + greet line (which I don't really love), because neither of us likes to "work a room." If I could pick, I would talk with a handful of people and really get to know them, instead of a lot of small talk.
And the life-givers? I just love this list. The practice of writing these down was informative and has given me some ideas of what to do when I'm feeling drained. I would highly recommend it!
I could really relate to both your life-stealers and life-givers. I haven't really given much thought to either of these categories, but now I realize what a mood changer they can be. I think I'm going to write my own list and try to keep myself accountable with what makes me happy and try to stay away from what doesn't. Thank you!
ReplyDeletehey Meaghan - If you make your list and post it, feel free to add your link here. I'd love to read your list as well.
DeleteThis is such a good idea!! Your stealers are very similar to mine except I hate to make ALL phone calls and love background noise.
ReplyDeleteWhat an awesome idea, and something I'm going to do over the next few weeks, starting tomorrow. I already know that sleep is one of mine, too :)
ReplyDeleteHey Jessi - It was really easy to do with a notepad just sitting on my desk when I thought of something. Feel free to share your list here if you want!
DeleteSo fabulous. Nice to know there are others out there who don't like background noise or mingling! :) *fist bump*
ReplyDeleteI just found your blog through an Influence class and plan to be back. :)