Have you ever looked at your calendar to see what’s coming up only to realize that it’s full of commitments you’ve made that have NOTHING to do with the current priorities that you’ve set?
You’re left thinking:
How did this happen (again?!)
I thought I was getting better at saying no to things!
I can’t back out now or I’ll upset people and look flaky, so I guess I just have to suck it up.
It’s easy for me to describe this scene because before I truly understood the difference between priorities and commitments, it happened to me all. the. freaking. time.
To avoid this happening to you (again), there are a couple of things you’ll want to understand.
#1: The difference between priorities and commitments
I protect this priority by making sure that I have time each week to record, saying NO to things that would get in the way of that time, and having systems in place to make everything involved in keeping the podcast running easy and enjoyable.
On other hand, a COMMITMENT is something that you’ve agreed to dedicate your time to (whether it’s a priority or not).
A commitment could look like hosting a bake sale for your kid’s class, house-sitting for your neighbor, or taking on a freelance gig for some extra cash.None of these need to be major priorities in your life in order for you to commit to them, and THAT is the most important thing to note- which brings us to our next point.
#2: Other people’s priorities can become your commitments
Let’s say you’ve taken on a freelance gig where the client is requesting a 2-day turnaround. Instead of telling them that you’re going to need more time because you have other commitments to fulfill (the ones that are actually aligned with YOUR priorities), you agree, sign the contract, and get to work.Now THEIR urgency has caused you to make the project one of YOUR priorities.
Don’t let this happen to you, my dear multi-passionate friend.
When you choose to prioritize something in your life, whether it’s a project in your business or your personal life, hold it to a high standard.
As you begin to field opportunities that come your way- remember to prioritize the commitments that align with the projects that are at the top of YOUR list first.
If you have extra time (or let’s be real, if you need the extra cash) you can begin to commit to other opportunities that may come your way- but do NOT allow these to come before your commitment to the priorities that you’ve set for yourself in your life.
Is this easier said than done at times? Yes.
Is it a life skill that will serve you deeply once you fully embrace it? Double yes.
Why this matters
The reason this is important is because as a multi-passionate you’re likely going to have multiple ideas and projects competing for your attention at any given time.
When you know what to prioritize, you’ll be able to bring your ideas to life in a way that feels fun and expansive instead of chaotic and stressful.
BUT, if you find yourself committing to things that compete with your priorities, you’ll be right back at square one.
Want to learn more about creating clear priorities as a multi-passionate? Check out my free training: How to Bring Your Ideas to Life on a Completely Stress-Free Timeline
RELATED POSTS:
3 Common Mistakes You’re Making as a Multi-Passionate (When it Comes to Prioritizing and Focus)
6 Affirmations to Help Your Subconscious Love Focus
5 Ways to Get Back on Track After Losing Focus (as a multi-passionate)
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