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Not enough time? Try simplifying.

It seems no one has enough time these days. You've streamlined, prioritized, delegated, and yet you still find yourself ending each day with the feeling that something's been left undone. You're probably right. In the rush to do what you have to do each day, you may leave little or no time to do what you want to do. And that may be one of the most important priorities of all.

Henry David Thoreau's instruction to simply “simplify” our lives sounds easier than it is in today's fast-paced world. It's really a question of focusing on what's most important for each of us. Ask yourself if a particular activity is really worth the hours it requires. Only by making the most effective use of our time, and choosing where to invest this most precious and limited commodity, can we have a healthy, balanced life.

Some tips for simplifying:

• Give yourself a break and curb your need for perfection. A dinner from the deli will allow you to spend more time with your family; the housekeeping doesn't have to meet your mother's standards; and if you don't have time to shop for the perfect gift, a phone call or a card can be just as meaningful.
• Pay bills using an automated withdrawal system whenever possible.
• Scale back. More isn't necessarily better. Get rid of (or store) the gadgets you rarely use that clutter up your kitchen. Don't hang on to clothes you don't wear, books you won't read, or projects you can't finish.
• Look for ways to become better organized at home and at work. Make use of “to do” lists; they can be invaluable in helping you stay on task.
• Encourage all family members to take responsibility and chip in with household chores.
• Cultivate awareness. Take time every day to open your mind to the moment, forget doing and simply be. This one change may make the greatest difference of all in your quality of life.

Call your EAP at (414) 257-2124 or 1-800-236-3231.