With the holidays approaching, I always feel it again: that inner race to do everything. Alongside my business, which I enjoy working on so much, I also have my studies demanding attention and a family that I’d love to give all the time in the world. Add the December chaos to that—gifts, dinners, decorations—and you’ve got a recipe for chronic lack of time.
The problem? I enjoy so many things. From coming up with new projects to planning Christmas dinners and diving into 100 things at once (thanks to my strong Core Talents in gathering information). But as an introvert, I notice that this constant “action mode” can drain me. It’s a challenge to make choices and stay focused when everything seems interesting. Does that sound familiar? Here are a few tips.
Know What Truly Matters
This might sound obvious, but do you actually know what your priorities are? What truly contributes to your long-term happiness and goals? Once that’s clear, it becomes easier to say “no” to everything else. For me, it’s my family and the quality of my work. So when I feel overwhelmed by a to-do list full of side tasks, I ask myself: “Does this contribute to what really matters?” Often, the answer is no, and that creates space.
Dare to Choose (and Let Go)
Focus doesn’t mean you’ll never get to do fun things again—it means you make choices. Even if I want to help everyone in the world, I can’t do it all on my own. That’s why I’ve chosen a clear specialization to focus on. If something doesn’t feel right, I make that known. A good choice often brings a sense of relief afterward.
Plan Time for Nothing
As an introvert, you likely need time to recharge—time when you don’t “have to” do anything and can just be. It’s tempting to fill that space with everything that “still needs to be done,” but trust me: an empty agenda is worth its weight in gold. My favorite moments? Early in the morning before everyone else is awake. Or in the evening, with a cup of tea and nothing to do. Those moments help me stay focused for the rest of the day.
Know Your Limits
It’s amazing to enjoy so many things. See it as a strength. But a strength without boundaries can quickly drain your energy. Regularly ask yourself: “What drains me, and what energizes me?” Try to do more of the latter and be honest about the former.
It’s not easy to tackle chronic lack of time, especially if you’re an enthusiastic multitasker. But by clarifying your priorities, making intentional choices, and planning time for rest, you can take control of the chaos. Remember: time is precious, but you decide how to spend it.
Want to discuss this further? Feel free to reach out!