The New Year brings with it reflection. We reflect on the past to help us improve our future. We decide what needs to go, what needs to stay and what needs to be added.

To aide you in setting priorities ask yourself these simple questions:

1.Who is most important to you?

Notice that priority number one is a ‘who’ and not a ‘what’. When all is said and done in the life it is this priority that matters the most.

2.What has to be done?

Each and everyday we have tasks that have to be done. Whether it’s cleaning the home, working outside the home, meal preparation or childcare these things must be done on a day-to-day basis – no exceptions. Take your time on this one as you may find that you will weed out your list a few times before fine-tuning it.

3.What needs to be done?

This list of tasks is different than the previous one in that life will not be altered if these tasks are not done right away. (You will live without them) For instance, lets say you have a closet overflowing with clothing. It first needs to be sorted then washed and hung on hangers. Some items may even need to be mended or given away. Although we need to get this done our daily life does not depend on getting this done. You can just close the door on this project until you have some spare time to conquer this task.

4.What would you like to get done?

This priority although important to us will not alter ones life if not completed. This is usually something we have chosen to do such as a hobby or activity. In this area you would place crafts, traveling, shopping at the mall, or watching a movie.

You now have a tidy list of things you can prioritize. Remember to keep people first, daily chores second, necessary duties third, and hobbies and entertainment last.

Don’t stop here! Continue to tweak your priorities until you have a refined list. This is an ever-evolving project so keep updating it as your life changes.

Good luck in 2006.

Sara Duggan is a mama of 2 very active boys. She and her husband live in California. For more information on managing your time and family visit http://mommie-care.com and sign up for her monthly newsletter. Sara is challenging all Moms to “Come Home” in 2006 to join her and other moms visit http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Mommie-Care2006

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