I’m constantly working on time management. There’s just so much I love to do that I tend to say yes when I probably should say no. But I’m grateful for these opportunities, and who knows what tomorrow will bring so I hate to pass them up.

My latest attempt at time management actually has to do with making more time for something that I was neglecting. And that’s time to focus on my inner core, my spirituality, the foundation of who I am.

I’m taking a clue from two leaders whose writings I’ve come to respect: Michael Hyatt and Greg McKeown. I’ve read books and/or blogs by both of these men and they each begin their day by reading something inspirational and then writing in a journal.

Starting my day in a new way

So for most (but not all) days in the last couple weeks, I’ve tried to do the same. It helps that I tend to be an early riser (sometimes on purpose, sometimes due to insomnia). I’ve gone into my home office, turned on the light, shut the door and picked up my reading. From there, I take several minutes to write in my journal. I often write about things that happened the day before, and I try to make sense of them, sort out my feelings, whatever.

Every day that I’ve done this, I’ve felt more peaceful and ready to face the day’s challenges. So this attempt at time management actually means setting aside time to do something that’s improving my mental health, I’m convinced.

What are you doing to maintain inner balance? I’d love to hear from you.