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Giving yourself time to reflect and ensure that whatever you're doing is still aligned with your goals and priorities is one way to make sure that you're on track with your journey towards progress.
It's normal to realize that what might have mattered to you a few years ago doesn't matter as much anymore. Our priorities can shift and change. We grow and find that we resonate more with different values, adapt according to what life throws at us, and see things from different perspectives— all of which could shape our priorities.
By this principle, now might be the best time to check on your priorities to get you centered on your goals. Start with these guide questions to reveal what you need to focus on:
What elements do I find no longer necessary?
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In life, we collect memories, items, and perspectives. We're like canvases, and as we go through our journey, we get the beautiful opportunity to add colors. However, there are times that the portrait we're painting no longer makes sense or that some colors that used to go together no longer do. We forget that we can let go of those colors, shapes, and forms in place for newer ones that fit the picture more perfectly.
The same goes for priorities. Try to think of certain parts of your life, your mindsets that no longer fit who you are right now, and start making way for what could be.
Which parts of my life need attention?
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Because life could put us in different dispositions in an unpredictable way, it's normal for us to feel like we need to put a spotlight on overlooked aspects or unknown territory. Admitting to yourself that you need more attention on things that call for your focus allows you to hone the essential skills of:
Identifying and embracing where you are in your journey or what you value the most.
Adapting and applying the right amount of time, effort, or resources.
Looking forward to what you're about to get from prioritizing.
Remember, priorities can differ from one Woman in Progress to another. When assessing what matters to you, think of your values, where you are so far in your journey, and what could motivate you the most to keep going— not anyone else's.
How do I keep them in mind every day?
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We often feel that big moves are the only ones that count when actualizing our priorities. To make someone feel we value them, we always have to go "the bigger, the better." To make our career look like a priority, we always have to overextend ourselves daily. However, those kinds of efforts, while welcome, aren't always sustainable. What's worse? When we don't deliver, which we inevitably will, we feel like we didn't focus enough or pour attention at all.
Our tip? Believe that your everyday habits matter as much as the leaps you make to reflect your priorities. Show them you value connection by being there for them whenever they need you. Exhibit how much you care for your career by being consistent. There is more than one way to show that you prioritize, but always finding ways to incorporate them regularly in your routine speaks volumes without leaving you empty.
A Ritual
Try to incorporate the habit of checking your priorities as much as you can in your daily life. You don’t always have to go on an introspective trip— prioritizing can be done even in the simple tasks we do on a day-to-day basis. Do with these tips from your to-do lists or your next journaling day. See and feel the difference.