Here’s a Conundrum I’ve Had for Years
How the heck do I get everything I want done in the short amount of time I have available?
I tend to be rather methodical by nature. I like to do one thing and do it well. I don’t like to have any time pressure when I work.
But life doesn’t cooperate with me. It does not give me one thing to do at at time. And it does not give me unlimited time to do it.
How can I possibly get it all done? How can I maintain balance?
The Telescoping Schedule Is my Solution
I’ve questioned the thought, “I need to get it all done.” And much to my perfectionist side’s dismay, I found that I don’t actually need to get it ALL done. My favorite description of this realization lies in the words “good enough.” I find myself resting in the truth of this phrase a lot.
So what is the telescoping schedule?
For me, it’s a way to roll with the punches. For example, in the morning before work, I like to do some exercise, do The Work, and meditate. I would love to spend one or two hours on each of these activities every day. But I don’t have that much time.
So I Telescope the Schedule
I adjust the time I spend on each activity depending on how much time is available:
2.5 hr available = 30 min exercise + 1 hr The Work + 1 hr meditation
2 hr available = 30 min exercise + 30 min The Work + 1 hr meditation
1.5 hr available = 15 min exercise + 30 min The Work + 45 min meditation
1 hr available = 30 min The Work + 30 min meditation
0.5 hr available hr = 30 min meditation
0 hr available = skip it all
It’s the Opposite of Perfectionism
Yet it’s perfect in its realism.
And it cuts out the guilt and fanaticism that come with having to do it ALL every time. This attitude is spilling over into many areas of my life these days. Simply being satisfied with “good enough.” And rolling with the punches.
I invite you to question, “I need to do it all,” this week.
And if you’re new to The Work, join us for Open Sessions every week to do The Work or ask questions about it.
Have a great week,
Todd
“Being present means living without control and always having your needs met” Byron Katie, Question Your Thinking, Change The World p. 167.
