This challenge is about preparation. Without some kind of plan and preparation our days our doomed to failure even before they start (at least mine are). This is great timing for me as I just tackled putting together morning and evening routines (which I have had mixed success with).
Inspiration I’ve Imbibed
I will summarize it this way.
Pray
When I pray at the start of my day, I find that things go much better for me. For years I formed a habit of praying in the evening, which is fine. But I think that if I cultivated a habit of morning prayer I would probably see an improvement in my attitude as well as other aspects of my day.
Write it Down
If you haven’t figured it out already, I am a list person. If I don’t write it down, it probably won’t get done. Sometimes I prefer using pen and paper (legal pad, post-it, etc) other times there are some great apps that I like to use. I’ve been told that EverNote is amazing for things like this, but I’m still getting the hang of it.
Eat the Word
I’ve struggled for years to develop a successful personal quiet time. Operative word being quiet. My children make noise from the time they get up until they go to sleep at night. There isn’t much quiet in my life. (I often wonder how Suzanna Wesley did it). For a while I was able to do my devotions after my runs or workouts in the morning, but I’ve fallen badly out of that habit in the last two weeks. Again, not unlike prayer, I definitely think morning exposure to scripture keeps me focused during the day.
Remember Why
Knowing why we do what we do. I suggest a review of Week 2: Know Your Why.
Eyes on Jesus
This is one of the hardest ones for me. It’s so easy for me to get caught up in the daily grind and lose my focus entirely. I move into survival mode of trying to get the dishes washed, laundry done and keep the house just clean enough to fool the health department.
Challenges I’ve Pursued
Be flexible but have a schedule. Make sure that getting dressed continues to be a priority. It’s OK to have other items in your morning to do list, but don’t let getting dressed be squeezed out. Worry about hair and makeup later if you are short on time. Start first and foremost by putting on clothes that make you feel great and motivated. It gives a whole new meaning to the phrase “dress for success.” When I’m dressed attractively but practically I get so much more done.
Next – Frumps to Pumps: Discipline
Week 3: Dress Differently, Act Differently
