[1]Photograph CrediT: Flickr
After a busy spring and bustling summer, I thought fall would be smooth sailing now that the school routine is in place. Once again, I was wrong. I am coming to the conclusion that the slower pace with preschool-age children and toddlers is behind me.
Each season is different with the activities and responsibilities. By preparing myself for this season of busyness, I am learning to declutter my activity schedule to keep it manageable and organized by cutting my losses.
Planned Activities
As activity leaders for our Sunday school class, Paul and I are quickly learning that we are not the only ones in a busy stage. The lower attendance at our planned events indicates busy schedules for all. In an effort to assist our members with great family adventures that meet their needs, we find it necessary to periodically cancel an activity.
Canceling Activities
Having 3-4 gatherings a month can be too frequent. Though it would be nice to have more, Paul and I spend a lot of time preparing, scheduling, and running these activities. Knowing our limitations [2], we sometimes choose to cut our losses and cancel good events that may work better in a slower month. Again, the slower months are few and far between, but the start of the school year has proved to be filled with plenty activity.
Rescheduling Activities
Whether you are attempting to schedule a dinner party [3], play group [2], or afternoon at the park, don’t be discouraged if your request gets declined. Try not to take it personally. You are not being rejected. The offer is getting rejected. If schedules do not permit gathering now, then try again in the winter or spring. All families have busy seasons and by cutting your losses on some events will free up time and energy for other activities.
By cutting our losses when an activity does not materialize, I am using time wisely on my other responsibilities and priorities. In your season of busyness, take heart, declutter your activities, cut your losses, and use your time wisely while focusing on your priorities. Happy planning!