Rewrite your default settings…

The end of a  year offers a great opportunity to reflect on life and set yourself in a different direction that takes you to your desired future. Between work deadlines and family obligations, it often feels like you are stretched too thin with no breathing room. But what if the issue isn’t your to-do list but the default settings you have been operating on?

We are no different from the electronic devices we use every day. Sometimes, we have so many tabs open that everything stops working because we are overcommiting and putting ourselves last. The year end is a great time to press reset and rewrite the default settings. Here are five actionable steps to help you reset and start the new year geared for success.

1. Reset your ‘Yes’ reflex. If your old default is saying ‘,yes’ to everything,  your new default should be to pause before you commit. Think of what you already have and learn to say ‘no’ strategically. Action Step: Practice saying, “Let me check my schedule and get back to you “
2. Outsource like a pro. If your default setting is to do everything yourself, your new default should be to outsource. Today’s technology can free up time, allowing you to focus on what truly matters. You can outsource, house chores, or shop online to free up time. Outsourcing is not a sign of weakness. It’s smart time management. Action step: Choose a task to outsource. It could be hiring a cleaning service or  automating bill payments. 
3. Ruthless prioritization. If your default setting is to do everything at the same time,  your new default should be to do only what truly matters. Learn to look at  your list and prioritize.  If you look closely,  some tasks can be delegated to others. Better yet, some tasks can even be completely eliminated. Action step: set two to three priorities monthly and daily.
4. Create boundaries. If your default setting is to be available 24/7, your new default should be to be clear about your availability both professionally and personally. Protect your time because blurred boundaries lead to exhaustion. Action  step: Set focus time at work and unplug time at home.
5. Ask for help. If your default setting is to figure out everything on your own, your new default should be to ask for help. I have a personal story. Our helper of over ten years will be leaving at the end of the month. Even though I had known for months, I was overwhelmed, not even knowing where to start with getting a replacement. Yesterday I called one of my friends and she promised to send me a few names. By the end of the day, I had spoken to two potential candidates, which were all very promising. Whilst my example might be simple, the point is you never know who is able to help you unless you ask. Action step: Make a phone call to a trusted friend or family member and ask for help with something that you have been trying to figure out on your own for months.

Bonus point: ditch the guilt.

Rewriting default settings is about stopping habits that no longer serve you. By resetting your Yes reflex, outsourcing like a pro, prioritizing ruthlessly, creating boundaries, and asking for help, you reclaim your time to spend it on what truly matters to you, whether that is spending quality time with your family  pursuing a passion project or having time for self care.

Gratitude: This week, i am grateful for the year 2024. I pushed myself out of my comfort zone and did many things for the first time and visited new places. Overall, it was a great year, and for that, I am grateful 🙏.

Gratefully