I am continuing my journey through How Did I Get So Busy? by Valorie Burton. She says that “if you are going to overcome busyness and embrace a self-care lifestyle, you must gain control of your technology habits now.” Well this is definitely an area in which I struggle.
So reluctantly, I have put most of my yahoo group subscriptions on “no email” and made a decision to stay off the computer from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Ugh!!! Can you hear my heart breaking? 
Well that is too strong a sentiment but it was VERY difficult to keep from checking my email throughout the day today. This, of course, demonstrates the reason that I need to make this change.
On a positive note, I did feel less distracted today. As things came to mind, I made myself a list of all that I needed to do online when my self-imposed banishment was over for the day. This helped to keep me focused when I did go on the computer.
I’m a little bit like Ado Annie in Oklahoma -”With me, it’s all or nothin’. It’s all or nothin’ with me”. Moderation can be difficult for me. Historically, I have had trouble striking a balance in several areas of my life. Please pray for my resolve to get this monster under control.
Rofl, Heather! My heart would be breaking too, but you are so smart to do this. Maybe I’ll cut down during Lent!
Hi Heather: I was just reading your Christmas letter before I file it away (how’s that for organized???) It sounds like a great book. I am trying to stay away from my computer in the evenings, I need it during the day for work.
A funny story: When I worked at XXXXXX I had a talk with Len about “compartmentalizing” and he agreed that I could block out a few afternoons a week on my Outlook calendar so that I would have time to work on projects during the day – instead of nights and weekends.
After a few weeks, some managers – frustrated with my lack of availability – would come to my desk when it was time for meetings I was too busy to attend, and demand that I attend – as it was obvious that I wasn’t “busy”!!!! I finally got up the courage to tell them I was working on their projects – and if I had to come to the meetings they would need to extend their deadlines!
My two favorite time management books are “Seven Habits” by Steven Covey, and “The Twenty Five Hour Woman” by Sybil Stanton.
I hope that eveyone is happy and healthy at your house.
Karen K.
Dear sweet Alice:
I know you feel my pain!!! LOL
Love,
Heather