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Hi!
Becoming A Smarter Steward of Time
Soul Restoration Tip
Kudos From BrightSide Clients/Readers
Contact Info
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Hi!  Welcome to this edition of The Bright Side!  We are thrilled to have you here in our community!  We are closing in 1000 subscribers now.  If you like what you read, please pass it on.

I hope this finds each one of you doing well, becoming inspiring and  
embracing your own unique and special selves!

With Love,
Beth

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Becoming a Smarter Steward of Time

"The trouble is that you think you have time."  ~ Buddha

One of the areas that I coach clients on is managing their time versus having time manage them. With all our modern conveniences -- the fax, email, pagers, mobile phones, etc. -- it seems we would have more time.  In reality, we are so busy taking care of all these modern gismos and other responsibilities that we have even less time than we used to!  We need to get a grip!

Following are some simple strategies I share with clients.  When one begins to incorporate these on a daily basis, life becomes a lot more effortless.   Keep in mind that it takes 21 days to build a new habit, but once in place stress is reduced and the adrenaline rush becomes a thing of the past.

So what can we do to be smarter stewards of time?  Here are 10 tips that can make a huge difference in your time management.

10. Go to bed 30 minutes earlier.  Use the time for reflection, prayer and
peace after a busy day.

9. Arise 15 minutes earlier each morning.  Spend the time getting centered
for your day.  Since starting this habit a couple of years ago, I have found
it makes a gigantic difference in my perspective each morning!

8. Prioritize the things you want to accomplish.  Write them down and then do it!  Implement your plans!  Organize for the day, week, month and year.

7. Arrive at meetings and appointments 15 minutes early.  I used to be
consistently 5 minutes late. That's not too bad, but late enough for me to
arrive at my destination pretty uptight. Being late is personally expensive.  
A coach also pointed out to me that I wasn't being very respectful of the
other persons time when I was late.  Ouch --- I didn't like that. Now I set
all appointments in my organizer for 15 minutes before I am actually supposed to be there.  No more tailgating to get to a meeting on time!  I arrive with ease, with a normal blood pressure, and fellow drivers love me again.  ;)

6. Know what you are worth per hour.  This way you can determine how to best spend your time.  If your time is worth $200/hour, then be sure that you are saying 'yes' to those things that are worth that and 'no' to those things that aren't.  Learn to manage interruptions and stay focused.

5. Delegate.  Are there things you feel that only you can do?  I bet there
are some you can let go of and let someone else pick up. Sure, it may not be done exactly that way you would have done it, but it may be well worth the reserve of extra time.

4. Use modern technology if it truly helps.  I am a 'gadget person.'  Sharper Image is one of my favorite stores and, if I could, I'd love one of every toy in there.  I have found, however, that some modern conveniences do not always make life easier.  Use the cell phone if it really helps, but not to be tracked down when you are in the middle of other endeavors.  Use voicemail to screen your calls and answer on your own schedule. Check email at specified times of day, not continuously. Brainstorm on how technology can help you, not hinder you.

3. You'd be surprised at how much extra time you have for things you like to do if you turn off the television.  Really.  If you love your TV, I suggest
tuning out one night a week, building up to a couple more.  (This one always
ruffles a few feathers, but I have seen it happen in my own life when I
decided I could live without Frazier.  I do still miss him sometimes though!).

2. If you still have trouble with these concepts and wonder where the time is going, begin a Time Log.  Write out each day of the week, each hour of the day and record how you spend your time. Include work, commuting, daily tasks, self-care, chores, etc., Look back each week and note patterns.  Begin to eliminate those things which do not serve you.

And the number 1 way to be a smarter steward of time is ...

1. Schedule and make sacred time a priority.  This includes time with
yourself, your significant other, children, friends, etc.  When it comes down to it, these are the things that matter.  This is what counts in life.  It's what it's all about, isn't it?  This is what is important and what will
ultimately feed your soul.  

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Soul Restoration Tip

"Fate carries its own clock."  ~ Pearl Bailey

Take 10 minutes right now for nothing but YOU.  Spend the time only thinking
and ask yourself the following question:

What matters most in my life?
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Kudos from BrightSide Clients/Readers

On occasion, I like to share some nice comments that have been sent my way.   I think it validates the coaching process and stands as a testament to those who have taken the personal power to change their lives.  It also encourages others who are on the same path.

"Thanks so much for your help and support.  Some of the things you gave
to me will be with me forever..."
K.K., Georgia

"I love getting your newsletter and your positive daily thoughts in Growth.   They often seem to be exactly what I need for that day.  Thanks!"   
F.H., Florida

"Your articles are great, and so are the many resources you share.  You
encourage me to achieve new things."  
C.N., Illinois

"The Bright Side always has good information with a gentle touch. You remind me of a sunflower!"  
A New Friend, New York

"Beth, we can all sympathize with computer troubles.  You have encouraged me so let me know if I can help you with your computer!"  
J.C., Georgia

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