3 Time Saver Boundaries To Create More Freedom In Your Day
Today, I found myself outside, indulging in one of my absolute favorite activities — picking blueberries. It’s a time when I can truly escape and become immersed in deep thoughts, self-reflection, and the invigorating sensation of breathing in fresh air. However, I must admit, there are moments when I can get carried away and lose track of time, neglecting other important tasks. As a result, I often find myself grappling with a sense of guilt afterwards.
We all have activities in our day that we prioritize and find value in. From checking emails to taking moments of relaxation, or engaging in conversations with others, these timeless activities make up a significant part of our daily routine. However, if you feel the need to establish healthier boundaries for these activities, I have three suggestions for you.
Quantity
The first boundary to set is a quantity boundary. When determining boundaries, ask yourself how much you want to accomplish. You can aim to fill a certain container halfway or completely full of blueberries, or you can simply bring a cup and stop when it’s full.
The key is to define a specific quantity for the task at hand, whether it’s watching one episode of your favorite show or completing ten emails before taking a break. By setting these boundaries, you ensure you stay on track and maintain a healthy balance.
Energy
The second boundary to consider is related to our energy levels. When I was outside picking blueberries, even though it wasn’t the hottest part of the day, I still felt the heat. As time went on, I started sweating and it took more and more energy to continue picking the blueberries. Ultimately, it was up to me to decide how much energy I wanted to dedicate to this activity. Similarly, it’s important to ask yourself how much physical or mental energy you want to invest in a particular task.
When you reach your limit or start feeling tired or like you’re pushing yourself too hard, that’s when you’ve reached your energy boundary. It’s time to take a break and shift your focus to something else.
Time
The third boundary is one that is crucial and often overlooked. It’s a time boundary. Reflecting on my experience with blueberry picking, I realized the importance of setting a specific time limit. For instance, I would set a timer for 15 minutes, and once that time was up, I would stop. Without this boundary, I could easily get carried away and spend more time than intended because I lack a clear time frame.
In order to fully appreciate the rewards of your efforts, it’s crucial to establish boundaries for activities. This allows you to create space and time to truly savor the fruits of your labor.
