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Do you ever have a habit of doing too much? You casually add things to your plate and then realize you don’t have enough time. I know I’ve been guilty. I do it in part because I’m an optimist. I actually believe I can do it all, but sometimes that optimism needs a dose of realism.
I recently started down the path of a project that I’m very excited about. But as I began down the path, it became obvious that it would take more time than I can dedicate right now. I could have kept moving towards it, but I knew I wouldn’t be able to do it with the excellence I wanted to – or without causing stress that would take away from the joy of the project. At first, my fear was that I would not be able to do it at all. And that fear caused me to resist what I knew I needed to do – drop the project.
Anxiety and fear are an invitation to stop and reflect on what’s really going on. Beneath the surface of anxiety is a message. And we can often find the message by asking the right question. So that’s just what I did.
There is a particular coaching question I’ve found to be very helpful in overcoming the habit of overcommitting. Perhaps it is one that would be helpful for you to ask yourself today. Think about that project or commitment you’ve taken on that’s causing you stress. Then ask:
Is this really necessary right now?
The key phrase is “right now.” When I asked myself that question about my pet project, I realized the answer was no. I’ll still do it, but right now is not the time.
Even though I’d told myself it was necessary, I realized it was desirable, but not necessary.
Take a moment to make a list of commitments and projects you’ve taken on. Be honest about what’s necessary right now and what’s not. This is a simple process. And what it gives you is the gift of time to be fully present and do the things that matter with ease and excellence. You have the power to choose. You have the power to change course. Exercise that power.
