Setting Priorities for Having It All

“The heavens themselves…observe degree, priority and place.” ~ Shakespeare

Is my life perfect?

Of course not.

But, I have to admit, it is pretty darn near-perfect. But I had to work at it.

As a single mom making my career happen, I had no time to rest, go out, or foster meaningful relationships. I fought for survival and for years I could only do two things: be a mom and work. When success, and with it, money, finally came into my life, I was able to fulfill my dream.

What I did not quite realize is the price I paid all those years, and what stress did to my health, my social life, and having that one special relationship. When I realized how these important aspects of my want-it-all list had suffered throughout the years, I put these items on my list and I’m finally taking care of them now.

My list is adjustable, as yours is too. It wasn’t until I cleaned out half of my closet to make space for “his” clothes that I met a wonderful man. It wasn’t until I said I wanted to have more social outlets that so many people reconnected with me. And it wasn’t until I realized that I was not well and needed to get better physically that I did what was necessary to heal.

Obviously I don’t have 100% of everything, so you’re probably wondering how I can still say that I have it all right now. Simple: I paid my dues. I went through a lot of really tough rhythms. I’m aware that there could be another problem again soon, but I have been through so many, I know that I will get through whatever it may be and that the tough times will pass and that life is… well, just life.

I have befriended KARL™: I know I can take care of myself and I know I will be okay. I accept where I am today and am so grateful for how good I have it. I accept that things can and will change again and I am okay with that. While I still stress out and live with my own personal fears, I make a point to remember what I have been through and survived so I can relax. I’ve gotten this far, but I will still go further and I am okay with that. And finally, I remind myself that the mad race is over and I need to live a little.

So I work, and speak, and write and take time off. I meet my friends for lunch, sit in the hot tub, and read. I am okay with where my life is today. I am now in control of it. And if something happens that I didn’t expect or plan for I now know that I’ll make it through it and it’s just another one of those things life throws at you.

Somewhere along the way, I realized that I could only do so much, and I began to set priorities. Now that I have been through so many rhythms, I realize that I have learned the skills, and earned the right, to have a well-balanced life.

Are you in control yet, or is your life still stressing you out? Let me know if you’ve taken any of these valuable steps I’ve outlined for you. I’d love to know about your process. Thanks so much for sharing with me.