I love routine. I love having a schedule, a list, and a plan. In the morning I do things in a very specific order. I even open my internet tabs in a certain way. Starting with one email and moving to another. I like to start my day the same way – read the news, check personal email, check business email, get things done, check social media. It’s kinda ridiculous but I like the sameness of it.

However, I also grew up in South America – where people and relationships are more important that being on time and following a schedule. Investing in another person vs. getting things done is what is celebrated. It’s why when someone comes in late to church they take the time to greet everyone they pass – even if it is in the middle of the sermon :)

I find I do both really well, but never at the same time. I’m either fully in routine mode or fully in relational mode. I’m either investing in relationships or working. While I’m people I tend to check out and get nothing done but I’m bad about pausing for relationships when I’m in the middle of a to-do list.

This year I’m trying to find balance. Instead of being in all one camp or another I’m trying to meet myself in the middle :) I’m learning that interruptions are sometimes divine and that other times it’s ok to say no to something in order to get things done I’ve been putting off. I’ve been learning that a “yes” is also a “no” to something else and how to find the best yes that keeps me sane and helps me pour into others. I’m learning that lists are necessary (and vital to function) but sometimes I need to add more coffee dates and dinners to my to-dos. That instead of “blogging” I should add “quality time with Scott (sans laptop!)”. And that that is ok. Our business will not fail if I take more time off. In fact, I come back more inspired. But I also need to know that I can’t take ALL the time off :) It’s a balance I’m slowly learning and trying to improve at. I’m not always successful, but it is a work in progress.

For example: This weekend I binged watched The People vs. OJ Simpson (I know I’m behind the rest of the world). But instead of finishing it, I took last night to meal prep and get ready for the week. I’ve also ordered something that is going to help with all this balance and will be reviewing it soon!

Also, and the most exciting…I finished working on something for you brides that’s been a long time coming before logging off for the weekend on Friday night. And of course it’s a list! So I’m happy to finally present the 7 things you should do once you get engaged!! Or, how to start wedding planning and save your sanity :)

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