Our current events, particularly the fight against racism, are calling us to prioritize deeper reflection and action. How do we act on the essential matters of life? How do we make that happen consistently? My calendar, how I schedule time, is one of the fundamental tools in my growth toolbox that enables this action.
Schedule Time
I appreciate the value of planning because it increases the likelihood of taking action. Scheduling time on my calendar for reflection, reading, learning, and personal growth is a top priority as we engage with the world today.
For me, this is just as important as scheduling meetings, appointments, workouts, and events. Because if something is not on the schedule or calendar, chances are it will not happen. Planning is part of the equation for a successful outcome. Taking action completes the circle.
Remember, if you fail to prepare, you are preparing to fail.
Reverend H.K. Williams, From the Periodical, “The Biblical World,” 1919
Plan with the Calendar
When I review my calendar for the coming week, I think about the opportunities to prioritize my most important tasks and action items.
Among the priorities I also include time for some combination of the following:
- Soul-tending
- Nurturing my spirit
- Reflecting on my stretch areas of growth
- Personal work on how I will take action in the world to be a better human being.
Prioritize the Big Rocks
In college, I remember hearing the following story about a professor teaching the students about the value of prioritizing the most valuable things in life. The teacher used a jar, big rocks, small rocks, and sand to illustrate the message.
I found the following video helpful in emphasizing a similar point to this story (except golf balls are used in place of the big rocks).
Do the Work
The world seems to keep reminding us that we need to be better. In some small ways, we can be better. I know I can better.
What is our plan? When will we take action?
Leverage your calendar as a tool to do the work for the good in your corner of the world. Schedule the time. Then take action. Show up for that appointment with yourself to reflect, to have a conversation with your neighbor, or to be present to the learning with curiosity and a desire to improve.
Plan for it, then make a better life happen. Plan. Act. Repeat.
Your Turn
What matters most to you right now? How are you taking action? What works best for you?
Your thoughts and comments are welcome here.
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