Leading with Purpose
Setting the Right Priorities to Simplify Your Life
Introduction:
Leadership, much like life, isn’t about doing everything—it’s about doing the right things. I’ve learned that when my life is in order, everything else begins to fall into place. In today’s noisy, fast-paced world, simplifying your life through prioritization can not only reduce stress but also help you lead with confidence and clarity. Let’s dive into how setting the right priorities can transform your life and leadership.
1. Organize Tomorrow Today: A Key Resource
Imagine you’re heading into a busy day. You’ve got meetings, deadlines, and more tasks than time. Now imagine starting that day with a clear plan. That’s the essence of Dr. Jason Selk’s book, Organize Tomorrow Today. It’s all about setting your priorities the day before, so you step into each day with focus, confidence, and energy. I’ve found this principle to be life-changing. It’s like how order precedes multiplication—when we bring order to our lives, productivity follows naturally.
2. The Power of Prioritization
Let’s be real: life can feel messy. We’ve all had those moments where confusion creeps in, creating stress and drama. But here’s the thing: God is a God of order. When we organize our lives, we make room for growth and peace. A life out of order leads to chaos, but by scheduling your priorities, you can create simplicity and calm even in the busiest seasons. Just like the Franklin Time Management course once taught, schedule your days around your values, not emergencies.
3. Your Priorities Determine Your Decisions
Have you ever noticed how much easier decisions are when you’re clear on what matters most? If faith is your priority, for example, you’ll never wonder whether you should start your day with prayer or Bible reading—it’s already a given. The same goes for family. When family is a priority, you’ll carve out time for loved ones, no matter how busy you are. Aligning your actions with your values removes the guesswork and keeps you focused on what truly matters.
4. Examples of Priorities in Action
Let me share a few personal examples of how priorities guide my life:
· Faith: My day begins with prayer, Bible reading, and journaling. It’s not just a routine; it’s my foundation. Whether I’m at home or traveling, this practice centers me and reminds me of God’s purpose for my life.
· Family: My wife and I have been married for over 50 years, and Fridays are our Family Day. Even now, with an empty nest, this time together keeps our relationship strong. It’s not something we decide weekly; it’s a commitment we live by.
· Fitness: Staying healthy is vital for leadership. I work out regularly, eat well, and prioritize mental fitness by consuming positive content. This ensures I have the energy to fulfill my calling.
· Finances: Financial health is about more than just stability; it’s about legacy. By tithing and managing resources wisely, I’m able to give generously and position myself to be a blessing to others.
· Future: I’m a big believer in delayed gratification. By focusing on daily habits and disciplined routines, I’m investing in the future I want to see.
5. Success Isn’t About Doing Everything—It’s About Doing the Most Important Things.
Think about this: the most successful leaders don’t complete every task on their to-do list. Instead, they focus on the most important things. I’ve learned that if I get my time with God each day, it’s already a successful day. By focusing on the priorities that matter most, you create momentum and reduce stress. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about being purposeful.
Conclusion
Your leadership journey is shaped by the priorities you set and the decisions you make. So, take a moment to reflect: What are your core values? How do they align with your daily actions? When you organize your life with the right priorities, you’ll find yourself leading with authenticity, simplicity, and excellence. And remember, God is for you!
Book Recommendation
Organize Tomorrow Today - Dr. Jason Selk
