Involved, Invested and Excited

Recent articles that I've read advise against multi-tasking.  If you are multi-tasking, you are likely to become less efficient in your job/role. 

I smiled, reading these articles and social media posts.  One question I had was, 'Do any of these writers have experience as receptionists or front office staff'? 

Working for many years in both front of the office and in the back of the office, I am aware of the different demands on how you manage your time and tasks.

Introducing streamlined processes is not to be less efficient.  Streamlined processes are to ensure that the work requiring detail and research is given sufficient time and diligence. However, if you are tasked to prepare detailed reports, and ensure that the reception area, phone calls, and emails are dealt with simultaneously, then it may become difficult to accomplish all tasks in a timely manner without either a less-than-acceptable report, or staff becoming frustrated and flustered, which unfortunately, shows up with complaints from clients, who do not see the workload imposed upon the staff member trying to juggle many tasks concurrently.

Regardless of whether your staff is paid or volunteers, it is in your interest as an employer, office manager, or volunteer coordinator to ensure that those in the reception areas have support.  Have you ever entered a business or organization and spoken to the receptionist, only to feel that (a) they don't care, (b) they don't value the business/organization, (c) they treat you with the barest civility.

Why does this occur? On occasion a person may be employed who does not care about their job, it is simply a form of income for them.  However, my experience has shown me that most people do want the best for the business they work for, and they do care.  What has happened that your reception staff begin to show otherwise?  

• lack of communication within the workplace,
• managers not rotating staff so that they can accomplish all tasks,
• piling too many tasks on one or two people,
• expecting tasks completed in periods not allowing for continual interruptions due to being at front desk,
• expecting staff to work without breaks or work overtime without compensation,
• expecting staff to take work home to complete tasks in their own time,
• not providing staff with appropriate breaks,
• not working with staff to have streamlined processes,
• not listening to staff who raise concerns or encounter abuse from clients and co-workers,
• your staff/volunteers become burnt out, anxious and exhausted.

Streamlined processes may include:

• emails being assigned to different managers/staff, relevant to each role,
• work being assigned to appropriate managers/staff instead of just one or two staff,
• rotation of staff - i.e. allowing reception staff to have a break from the front desk to the back desk to work on reports, etc that require full concentration, without interruptions,
• any abbreviations used in the workplace are communicated to all staff so that everyone knows what is being communicated.

Supporting your staff and volunteers in practical, caring actions will help them to be involved, invested, and excited about their roles and assisting clients.

How can you streamline processes and assist your staff/volunteers to be invested in the organization you are all part of?

Providing tips to working from home

One of the joys of working from home is that you are in 'your space'.  However, working from home also means organizing, creating a peaceful space to allow creativity and thrive, and keeping it simple.

There are challenges to working from home.  

Simple points such as:

• not being distracted by clutter, noise, or household jobs,
• being present in getting your work completed and not distracted by scrolling on social media,
• ensuring your family and friends know that you have set times when you are working, and not available to socialize, even though you are physically at home,
• keeping your space clean and tidy so that distractions of clutter or accumulation of piles don't deter you from completing assigned workloads.

How could you minimize distractions?

• Set time aside weekly to clean your office space and go through any piles of accumulated paperwork, etc,
• Set time aside daily to ensure that you have completed simple tasks before you begin working in your home office.  (Making your bed, cleaning the bathroom and kitchen, vacuuming, etc)
• Set your break times and take them.  For example, morning tea or lunch.  Do not bring your lunch back to your office.  Take time to eat away from your laptop and desk.  This might mean you have your lunch on the back patio or sit in the sunshine for 10 mins.
• Once you have completed your assigned work for the day, leave your office tidy and close your equipment, just as you would when leaving the workplace office.

These are just some ideas.  You will have more ideas that you can implement.

Value your Team

Many people make a team.  How you or management treat can determine whether the team is cohesive, excited, encouraging, and forward-thinking, or, in dissension, disheartening, reactionary, and critical.

So, how can you value your staff and/or volunteers? One simple step is simply saying 'Thank you'! But do not just say the words, follow up with action. You may choose to hold a monthly or bi-monthly morning tea, encouraging your team to engage with one another and build their working relationships and discuss the challenges and successes within their areas of volunteering or work.

Communication 

I cannot emphasize enough how important communication is to value your team, whether paid or volunteer.  Regular, open communication is vital to building an effective team that is cohesive, excited, and working well together.

Equip Your Team

Your team is unable to effectively engage in their roles if they are not equipped with resources and training.  In many industries, "toolbox talks" are held where opportunities to bring up concerns, training requirements, and provide professional development are concentrated on.

If there are courses, and/or professional development opportunities available, ensure your team is aware of them and how they can participate. 

Ensure when fresh staff or volunteers join your team, they are introduced to the whole team and welcomed.  

Reward Your Team

Be available to encourage and reward your team.  Something as simple as a morning tea or doing a team-building activity together.  Saying thank you, giving certificates, or an acknowledgment of outstanding contributions. 

Communication, equipping, and rewarding your team will encourage longevity, respect, cohesiveness, and unity. 

How can you value your team today?

Who Am I?

 Recently, I posted on my social media pages a few thoughts about how often women are asked, "What do you do for a job?"

As I've reflected further on this issue, I am encouraged that as women, we have been given the ability by God to encourage, love, and nurture others, even under immense pressure and responsibility.

In a world that so often defines us by our accomplishments, looks, dress code, and what we own, we can forget that God created us. Scripture tells us, "For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."  Ephesians 2:10

What am I? When considering this question - the first part of the answer is that I am a child of God, saved and forgiven, a believer in Jesus Christ.

Secondly, my job description now encompasses financial director, executive housekeeper, event planner and coordinator, diary manager, and secretarial administrator.

Reading the stories of Esther and Ruth reminds us that these women did not have easy choices to make.  They endured and participated in making a difference for their community, and family. Their stories are written down for us to be encouraged.

Read:  Ruth and Esther

My quote for 2023 is "To be successful at anything, you must simply be what most people aren't: Consistent" Anon

So, our question is not What Are You? Not what is your job?

Instead, ask yourself - Who Am I? Now that's an interesting question to ponder!

For further reading you might like to undertake - click here 

To read more about Who I am in Christ - click here

To view the social media post - click here

What to do post-meeting

So, you’ve just come out of the weekly/monthly/quarterly general meeting of your organization or not-for-profit. What is next?

Herein lies one big issue. Everyone in that meeting will either be required to undertake actions from the meeting, or you have just compiled a list of notes that are filed away, never to become exposed again.

During the meeting, actions should be assigned to people within the meeting. How can you assist, as the minute taker?

• As soon as possible post-meeting (within 24 hours), arrange concise notes, which clearly show WHO is responsible for an action. Ensure that any relevant points about each resolution are included
• In your notes, include the date, time, and location of the meeting, attendees (include apologies), topics discussed, and all decisions made. Ensure people understand clearly who is allocated to action which resolutions and action items.
• The minutes (or summary) should include the topic/s discussed, the resolution, a timeline, if necessary, what actions are to be undertaken, and who is assigned to complete.
• Ensure you have your draft minutes/summary typed up and approved within the timelines given to you so that distribution to key personnel is timely.
• If appropriate, provide a follow-up email/memo to each assigned person with a summary of the areas they have been assigned.  You may like to provide this in between meetings, as a way of improving communication, but also to encourage them. Often, good managers, will have completed the assigned tasks, or have them in progress, and a follow-up message can be edifying as they read and can say, yes, this is completed and ready for the next meeting.
• When preparing the next meeting agenda, you may choose to include a list from the previous meeting to check through what has been completed from the last meeting.

If there is anything I have learned over 30 years of writing minutes, it is communication is key to ensuring all actions/resolutions are followed up promptly.

What actions can you undertake to improve the timeliness of information reaching assigned personnel in your workplace?

How Tight Do You Hold On?

How Tight Do You Hold On - to people, to things, to past experiences?

Enjoying our relationships, the material items that surround us, and the amazing experiences that we encounter or plan, provide memories that we can reflect on throughout our life.

The ability to let go - of people, items, and experiences is difficult. However, if we hold too tight and are unable to let go, we risk losing the opportunity to meet new people, and experience new adventures or release some of our possessions and bless others by helping to meet their needs.

Why is it hard to let go?  Why do we hold on so tight?  

• seeking affection,
• seeking fulfillment,
• trust,
• encountering a misunderstanding with another,
• wanting to have what we were unable to as a child,
• wanting to give our children or loved ones the things they did not have growing up,
• seeking to fill our lives with things so we appear successful,
• seeking love,
• seeking satisfaction
• security,
• comfort.

“You can clutch the past so tightly to your chest that it leaves your arms too full to embrace the present.”– Jan Glidewell

"This is what the past is for! Every experience God gives us, every person He puts in our lives is the perfect preparation for the future that only He can see." Corrie Ten Boom

I read the following quote by Walt Disney, “We keep moving forward, opening new doors, and doing new things because we’re curious and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths.”

This quote inspires me.  It can be difficult and overwhelming to let go of people, things, and past experiences.  How many more people, things, and experiences will we encounter if we keep moving forward, opening new doors, undertaking new things, stepping out into a new adventure!

Corrie Ten Boom says it well with the following quote, "Hold loosely to the things of this life so that if God requires them of you, it will be easy to let them go."

Don't hold onto people, things, and past experiences so tightly, that you are too afraid to open new doors and allow your curiosity to lead you down new paths of adventure.

How do you handle emails?

Have you ever opened your email inbox and then groaned as you read the volume of messages?  

One complaint many business operators, managers, and N-F-P volunteers make is about the numerous emails they receive. Life is busy without the endless stream of emails, often having nothing to do with the day-to-day running of the organization.

You ask for one downloaded report from a specific website, and suddenly you are inundated with emails from that company providing 'offers'. You volunteer and take on a position within a not-for-profit organization and again, you become overwhelmed with emails.

How do you manage the volume and work out what is necessary to respond to?

You may like to consider having sub-folders within your email inbox where you quickly look over emails and then assign them to the appropriate sub-folder in order of importance.

For example, you may choose to have an "Action Now" sub-folder, or several project folders. There are many ways to organize your inbox so that you are not overwhelmed.

• Quickly scan through your inbox.
• Place emails into sub-folders according to the importance of responding. What do you need to respond to today, and what can wait until tomorrow, or be actioned later?
• create a list (either paper or digital) if you find this helpful, to tick off or remind yourself.
• unsubscribe from digital newsletters, catalogs, campaigns, etc that you are no longer interested in.
• every now and then do a thorough clean out of your inbox. You may like to file important emails, but deleting out from your email system will assist in only keeping what is important.

You may choose to have an administrative staff work through your inbox and assign appropriate emails to managers, staff, or tasks.  Then you can focus on the key areas of your role without having the overwhelming volume of emails to work through.

Preparing Your Report

Currently, I'm preparing progress reports for upcoming meetings. As this year progresses, I have been considering how to achieve a concise, straightforward way to ensure that each report delivered covers relevant information. If you are reporting to different organizations and in different portfolios, then ensuring you are communicating clearly and concisely will help make better use of your time.

There are numerous ways to draft your report. You may choose to use paragraphs, bullet points, or sub-headings.  Some organizations may have a proforma template that each person or departmental manager uses.

From writing many progress reports over the years here are a few tips I have learned that might be helpful to consider:

• address report to the appropriate manager or board.
• be concise.
• be current (don't write on events or projects that are out-of-date, unless the historical value adds to the report).
• ensure you address the areas over which you manage.
• if part of your report, ensure any problems or challenges are noted and what you have done to address the issue, or what assistance you are seeking.
• include any future planning for your area of management.  This may also include advising staff leave, travel plans, and project deadlines.
• choose an easy-to-read font in a suitable size.
• do not use slang or cliches.
• do not include favorite quotes, etc.  Usually, reports are business based, even in not-for-profit, so keep your report looking clean and professional.

Singing and Shouting

Looking through the Psalms, I've noticed numerous times when we're instructed to sing or shout to the Lord.

Psalm 96:1-2 (NIV) tells us, "Sing to the Lord a new song; sing to the Lord, all the earth. Sing to the Lord, praise his name, proclaim his salvation day after day."

Again, Psalm 98:1 (NIV) says, "Sing to the Lord a new song, for he has done marvelous things;"

Some so many talented artists write and record worship songs to tell of what the Lord is doing - marvelous things! There is no reason to not worship the Lord Jesus. We have no reason to grumble that we don't know what to sing!  If you cannot find a song to sing, then I encourage you to begin reading the Psalms.  Are you struggling to pray?  Read the Psalms aloud to the Lord as your prayer.

Out in the countryside by yourself?  Maybe shout out a Psalm to the Lord.  That will get the attention of the local animals 😉 However, you decide to pray - 'singing and shouting' are some ways to express worship.  David, who wrote many of the psalms sang and praised the Lord and wrote down his pieces.  He was a musical and poetical artist. Even today, we are the recipients of these recorded compilations.

After reading some Psalms, you could write a praise piece to the Lord to express your love for him.

Spending time in Scripture and reading (I suggest aloud) some Psalms, helps to reduce anxiety and worry.  Instead of focusing on ourselves, we focus on the One who loves us.

During trials and unexpected life happenings, we can find peace and joy through reading Scripture.  As you read the Psalms, you will find that those who wrote these words also had struggles, and they tell of deep pain, real love, and overcoming.

Something to think about.

Recording Minutes of a Meeting

Some people may ask why recording notes (minutes) of a meeting are important. The recording of decisions made provides a written record that can be referred to in the future, provide approval for actions to be implemented, and is kept as a historical reference.

The ability of the person to take minutes should be recognized. The ability to write or type notes while being immersed in the discussion, requires the minute taker to be prepared, well-organized, and multitasking.

Accurately recording all decisions made, ensures a documented reference for the group or organization of actions to be undertaken and completed.

The person taking minutes should record in a way that is not biased and provides enough information to show why the decision was made yet be concise. The ability to listen well and type/write quickly is essential.  If the meeting is over several days, or there are numerous items to be discussed and resolved, having a second person take notes is helpful. The notes can then be collated into one document post-meeting.

Writing/typing more information than you will include in the final set of minutes helps the minute taker to ensure they have captured all essential information.  It is much easier to reduce what is noted in minutes than to try and remember what is missing.

www.canva.com

Some suggestions that may be helpful to those assigned to take down minutes:

• Ensure distractions (mobile phone, apps, etc) are turned off or silenced.
• Save your work regularly if typing. I cannot stress the importance of this! If you have typed hours' worth of information but have forgotten to save the file and lose all you have worked on, it is frustrating and embarrassing.
• Be prepared - have all essential tools on hand and ready.
• Listen carefully.
• If unsure about the wording of a proposed resolution or minute to be noted, ask. Refer to the Chairperson for clarification.  Ensure you have accurately recorded both the person moving motion and the person seconding the motion.
• Take more notes than you will require.  It's easier to delete than remember.
• Have final draft completed as soon as practical post-meeting and send to Chairperson/assigned person for approval.

These suggestions are simply learned from many years of experience in undertaking such roles.

An accomplished minute-taker ensures that important decisions are accurately recorded. I encourage you to not be overwhelmed when minute-taking.  It is a valuable skill to learn and accomplish.

Rest

Recently I read a devotional about the importance of sleep. You can read it here.

Reflecting on this devotional, about the importance of rest, brought a realization that whilst we need to ensure we work and meet our obligations and commitments unless we are well rested and refreshed, our ability to do all we've committed to will be comprised.

After so many years of running on almost empty, health and the ability to rest well becomes compromised. Once this occurs, it is difficult to maintain keeping up with commitments, resentment can occur, and work performance and health are impaired.

Psalm 3:5 says, "I lie down and sleep; I wake again because the Lord sustains me."

What are some ways we can ensure we are having adequate rest?

• Say No.  There are times when we need to say no. Without refreshment, we cannot fulfill the commitments made. So, review your commitments to helping others, and do a few well, instead of having resentment trying to do many. Be polite in declining requests and be prayerful about what you are to do and what you are not to do.
• Mark your diary by planning time out.  Block sections of your diary out, even on the occasional Saturday! Take this time to rest, to do something different with the family.  For example, you might like to visit a new attraction, or take a family drive, or have a picnic.
• Spend time reading the Bible and praying.  Exodus 33:14 tells us, The Lord replied, “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.” Taking time out to be in the Lord's presence and resting in him helps us to (a) draw closer to the Lord and know him better, (b) not worry so much because we are assured in him, (c) we can be rested and refreshed in his presence.

Now if you are so tired that you have trouble staying awake, you're not going to be able to pray well or make good decisions. If you are running on empty trying to work, care for your family, ensure your home is tidy and meals are on the table, and try to meet commitments within the community, then some tough decisions might have to be made.  

I am not saying that we don't contribute, or that we expect others to do everything for us.  To be able to make balanced, wise decisions, engage with others, work well, and pray we need to ensure we are having refreshing rest so that we can accomplish all that needs to be achieved.

Concise Reporting

Many people think that if they use long, flowery sentences then their writing will be more appreciated.  However, in our busy, information-filled daily life, many people appreciate someone who provides concise, clear information.

What does concise mean?  From the Mirriam-Webster dictionary, concise is explained as, "marked by brevity of expression or statement: free from all elaboration and superfluous detail".

For example, when writing a progress report, keep your information clear, accurate, and concise. The information presented should relate to the assigned portfolio position and provide accountability and progress to those to whom the report will be presented to.

You may choose to use tables, dot points, or main headings with key points following. Something I have learned in a new N-F-P role recently is to have a summary at the end of my report providing succinct points and recommendations for the upcoming meeting.

Whatever way you choose to present your information to an audience, board, or employer, having your information clear and concise will enable those reading the important points required to review and make decisions, without spending extended periods reading and trying to gather data and facts.

Navigating Challenges

Wouldn't be easy if life were always enjoyable, fun, and relaxed?

In an ideal fantasy that may happen, however, if we are real with each other and ourselves, we know that life is not always easy.  Often, it is fraught with challenges and difficulties. Yet, in times of trials and hardship, we grow.  Our thinking is challenged, causing us to reevaluate what is important, and what can be left behind.

No one enjoys the challenging times in our lives. Do you stop and listen to those who have overcome difficulties in their lives? I don't mean just hearing the story, but really listening. If you truly listen, hear the message of what they went through but more importantly, hear the message of how they have grown through the challenges thrown at them.

What challenges have you encountered in your life? Everything was going very well, life was enjoyable.  Suddenly, an unexpected challenge of employment, health, or housing stands up against you like a giant threatening you.  How do you respond?  Do we respond like the army of Saul who were terrified and lost all hope, or are we like David and stand up to the threat?

Read 1 Samuel chapter 17 (Holy Bible)

"David said to the Philistine, “You come against me with sword and spear and javelin, but I come against you in the name of the Lord Almighty, the God of the armies of Israel, whom you have defied." 1 Samuel 17:45 (NIV)

Did David find an easy path?  No.  He simply could have returned to his sheep and left the army to stand and tremble.  But David was no coward.  God had taught him through challenges and trials with bears and lions how to defeat the enemy.  It was not through his own strength, but dependence on the Lord.

How do we change our mindset from fear to faith?  

Hebrews 11:1-3 (NIV) tells us, "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.  This is what the ancients were commended for.  By faith, we understand that the universe was formed at God’s command so that what is seen was not made out of what was visible."

Life will not be always enjoyable, fun, and relaxed.  There will be times of challenges, and hardship.  We can look at these times and journey through them knowing we can choose to grow in our faith, and our outlook on life and become people who are empathic and want to help others.

Does it sound depressing that we will face difficulties? Perhaps.  Remember though, we don't have to journey this life alone.  We have the choice to view life in two ways - challenging and hard OR an adventure where we make an impact.

Let's return to David's story in 1 Samuel 17.  He defeated the giant! With five (5) smooth stones and his sling.  Was it the stone and sling?  No.  David tells us how the giant would be defeated when he said, "All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands.” 1 Samuel 17:47.

The day of fear was turned into a day of victory. David encountered many challenges in his life, yet many know him as one of the greatest kings of Israel. He commanded the Israelite army, reigned over Israel, and wrote the Psalms.

Was his life easy?  No.  He put his faith in God and held onto the assurance of what he could not see yet, knowing that God would keep his promises.

How can you turn your challenge/fear into faith?

How do we communicate effectively?

How important is communication? The dictionary defines communication as “a process by which information is exchanged between individuals through a common system of symbols, signs, or behavior”, “a verbal or written message”, and “a technique for expressing ideas effectively”.

Communication is an essential skill, not only in your personal and community relationships but also in your workplace.  Do you stop and truly listen to those around you?  If you remain quiet and listen to what your colleagues and work friends talk about, it may surprise you that communication, or lack of it, is often referred to.

How can communication in the workplace improve?  If you are an employer, director, manager, supervisor, or team leader, make time in your diary to ensure you meet with your staff/team.  Don’t talk down to them, ask them questions about how they view the company/business/organization, ask them how they view communication between the different areas of the business.  You may choose to do this individually, in small teams, or as a whole group.  Note, however, that some people will not engage if they feel threatened.  If people in your organization are not engaging in the conversation, it may take some time to build a relationship where they feel they can speak without fear of losing their job.

We do not know what all our team members are going through outside of the workplace, sometimes managers and supervisors are unaware of what’s happening in the workplace. You need to be listening, aware, and taking note of your team and how they interact with you and each other.

The skill of communication doesn’t just apply to the workplace.  It applies to all areas of our life – family, friends, marriage, relationships, social interactions.  The ability to communicate well, not just hear noise, but listen with intention, and engage in meaningful conversation assists you in understanding your partner, children, and colleagues much better.

How do we communicate effectively?  Listen – don’t just hear what you want to hear, don’t just hear the ‘noise’ people make; really listen to what is being said. Lead by example – if you want to improve communication, then show how; read about how to improve and practice by action. Learn – accept criticism and correction. 

Be Intentional

What comes to mind when you hear the word ‘intentional’? 

Do you think, being purposeful, or taking a deliberate action that lines up with your beliefs, and values?

Many people have heard or read the verse from Proverbs 16:3, which states, “Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.”

One passage that has been important to me is from Philippians 4:6-7, which states, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

If we are not intentional then we simply flounder, make sub-standard decisions that cause distress to those around us, and make a mark against our character.

Being intentional, as stated in the dictionary, says “done with intention or on purpose”.

So, what does this mean for you and me? Are we intentional? Does what we do matter?  I believe that being intentional is important.  We should be intentional in our faith, friendships, relationships, workplaces, and aspects such as communication, kindness, work ethic, and mental and physical health.

Each moment being positively intentional adds up to create an affirmative outcome.  Do you commit your time wisely in undertaking your work, whether paid or voluntary, to achieve a productive outcome that benefits the business or organization? Do you use and plan well with available resources (staff, volunteers, products, equipment) to achieve the best result possible?

If we seek to be intentional, then first commit to becoming:

·        Wise in our planning,

·        Communicate with clarity and encouragement,

·        Meet deadlines and reporting timelines,

·        Be accountable,

·        Be kind.

Walking on the Right Path: Creating a Radiant Workspace for Success

Bible Verse to reflect on Psalm16:11 (MSG)

Just as walking with God directs us onto the right path, having a well-designed workspace can help us excel in our chosen field of expertise. It's helpful to create a space where you can create, reflect, and work from. 

By following these tips, you can create a space that is both functional and inspiring, helping you stay motivated and focused on your goals.

• Use natural light to create a bright and welcoming atmosphere.
• Incorporate reflective surfaces such as mirrors or metallic accents to add to the radiance.
• Choose colors that evoke joy and positivity, such as sunny yellows or calming blues.
• Create a focal point in the room that represents your life's purpose, such as an inspiring quote or a piece of art that speaks to you.
• Incorporate elements of nature such as plants or natural materials to create a sense of grounding and connection.
• Choose furniture and decor that is functional and comfortable, so that you can fully enjoy and engage with your space.
• Manage the space to ensure it remains organized and clutter-free, promoting clarity and focus.
• Don't be afraid to incorporate your own personal style and meaningful objects into your design, as this will help your space feel truly authentic and purposeful.
• Experiment with different textures and materials, such as plush rugs or natural wood accents, to add depth and interest to your space.
• Use art and decor to express your personality and style, whether it's through bold prints or sentimental objects.
• Consider incorporating technology into your design, such as a smart speaker or wireless charging station, to make your workspace more efficient and streamlined.
• Make sure your space is properly ventilated and has good air quality, as this can have a significant impact on your productivity and overall well-being.
• Take the time to regularly clean and maintain your space, as this can help you stay organized and focused on your goals. 

Remember, creating a space that is both radiant and purposeful can help you stay on the right path toward success.

If You Fail to Plan, You Plan to Fail!

 You've read the saying, "If you fail to plan, you plan to fail!

Being organized and ensuring you have your day planned out, helps in planning to succeed, instead of planning to fail. Over many years, I have watched many people both succeed and fail.  Some tell me, "I just go with the flow!", or "I can't plan past the new couple of days, it's just too far." 

Others tell me how they have planned out their goals and what actions will need to be undertaken up to a year or more ahead so that they have the best possible chance of success.  The difference between these two types?  

Simply, it's having an action plan in place and ensuring that they consistently work towards the goal they have set rather than "let's hope for the best".

This quote, I think sums up 2023 for me and part of what I want to achieve: 

"To be successful at anything, you must simply be what most people aren't: Consistent." (Anon)

How can you begin to plan for success instead of failure?

• Set aside time each week to dream, research, and plan the activities you want to achieve.
• Determine what activities are urgent, short-term planning, and long-term planning.
• Begin collating what you need for short-term and long-term plans. E.g. you decide to apply for a housing loan. In undertaking this process, documents will need to be gathered and certified, book an appointment with an authorized broker or local bank.
• Action urgent jobs promptly; don't leave until the last minute.   Ensure the work undertaken is your best.
• Have a notebook or daily planner sheet that you can tick off jobs as they are completed.
• Don't be overwhelmed; break the jobs down into manageable tasks. I have found this helps manage stress and anxiety levels, especially when undertaking a role or request that I have never done before.
• Review, review, and review documents and information before sending.  This saves time and embarrassment.  
• Have regular times that you are at your desk, so people know when they can contact you.
• Plan time to rest and have a break.
• Take care of yourself.

(Canva)

A New Year - Are You Ready for Change?

 Reflecting on the year we have journeyed through has been one of challenges and change.

Change occurs, even when we do all we can to ensure that we continue our path in comfort and routine.  Sometimes, the pathway is rocky with pebbles we slip on or stones on which we stub our toe; there may be a large rock that requires help to push out of the way.

As we journey together on life's path, let's help one another by sweeping off, picking up, and removing the stones that people slip on or stub their toes on.  We must learn to ask for help when the large rocks cannot be removed by our strength alone.

What are a few practical ideas we can undertake to prepare for the new year?

• Declutter your office.  Don't be afraid to work through the paperwork and items in your office and make some tough decisions about what is really needed or what should be relocated to another area of your house.
• Plan and set up your daily/weekly/monthly planner. (I use a color-coded system to assist with key deadlines that must be met).
• digitalize documents that you wish to keep but do not require a paper copy and add them to a specifically named folder.
• Declutter your digital devices. Do you really need 10 photos of one moment, or would 1-2 copies be enough?

Change and challenge will occur in the new year coming.  Let's pray and seek the Lord's direction and help.  Let us be prepared to step out into a "new thing"!

Embracing Change?

Over the past few months, significant changes have occurred in our family life. Changes in employment, our youngest graduating from High School, and myself, taking up a new Not-For-Profit executive position.

Change can bring the feeling of being uncomfortable and challenging, and certainly cause you to either embrace it or hide away.

Undergoing change in your life is not comfortable. Often friendships formed in the workplace, and other organizations change, even end. Relationships change. Finances change. Family life changes.

Recently, I have been reflecting on how to embrace the changes positively. Is this easy? No. But to live life to be effective means being willing to change, even when your mind is screaming NO!

To begin this process, I have begun:

• Getting up earlier in the morning and having breakfast (or a cuppa) with my husband.
• General House tidy-up (making the bed, cleaning bench tops, washing, dishes, general household duties).
• Set time aside for reflecting on God’s Word.
• Deal with urgent emails, accounts, and the import “To Be Done” items on my list.
• Set time aside later in the day to read, rest, pray, and visit.

It is so easy to fall into procrastination or become overwhelmed.

Iveth Luna (song “In You” sings, I can do all things...even when the darkness comes, even when the mountains tower...in You (the Lord).

That is how I get through each day - with the Lord. If the past few months have taught me anything, it is I cannot get through the changes without the Lord

As organized as one tries to be, unless the Lord directs our path, the journey will be rough. The path may have stones that irritate you because they get in your shoe, or there may be a block on the path, your health may be under attack, or your family life has changed. Whatever the situation, the constant presence, and love of the Lord is comforting and reassuring

What changes can you make today to start each day more positively?

Planning, Listing, Learning!

Those who know me, they will understand that I am usually organized. I have lists everywhere, a planner colored for the month ahead, a diary (digital and/or paper) reflecting what's coming up, where I need to be, what needs to be purchased and bills to be paid.

It's Important to Plan

With the busyness of life in our modern society, it is important to plan - at least have some idea of what's coming up, what bills need to be paid, and what appointments must be attended.

It's easy to say, "well, I get to that when I feel like it," and for some, I guess that works. 

However, having a plan of action helps to lower stress levels, and ensure we get to those important appointments and events on the right day and at the right time. Can you imagine missing your child's special day at a school event or forgetting an important medical appointment?

Planning can be simple, or, depending on your work, voluntary positions, and demands on your time, more complex.  By planning at least, the basics, you can find ways to free up portions of your time so that you can invest in family, learning, relaxing, spiritual growth, and assisting in the community.

Lists

Over the years, lists...yes boring lists...have been my go-to, the lists ticked off have provided reassurance and have sometimes been used to prove that certain jobs have been completed. More than once, producing my list has proven that time-sensitive deadlines were met.  

Just having a tick-and-flick list can ensure you accomplish what's necessary to be completed on a certain day or meet a deadline. Ticked-off lists help to visually show there has been movement on the given task and give a sense of accomplishment.  You can use a list to break down a large job into smaller blocks of work, so you are not overwhelmed.

Learning

Never stop learning! If you stop learning, you are not breathing! Learning is life-long.  Perhaps taking on a new role is daunting but gather around yourself trusted people to affirm and encourage you as you step out.

A positive environment where you are encouraged to experience innovative ideas and challenges can bring a spark that fans into a flame of creativity.  Imagine what your creativity can bring to a not-for-profit group or your workplace? You may just have the idea they need to progress into a new and exciting pathway of growth!

Planning, having a list, continuing to learn - living life to make a difference!

Canva 2022