Our identity can very easily become wrapped up in the things we do. 

And then there always comes a day when we find ourselves completely over-committed. We are totally exhausted and hating tasks that we willingly commit to.

When you feel that way, it might be a good idea to step back and take a good look at your time commitments. Take time to evaluate what was really important in your life. 

Make a bold and radical decision to say no to anything “extra.”

There are things you have to continue to do: (work, cook, clean, self-care, community, etc). There are always things that come up that you can say no to: (head a committee, organize a fundraiser, manage a special event, etc)

You may find yourself empowered by the word no.

It might be helpful to write a vision statement with for your life goals – kind of like what a company would do with a mission statement.  Start by writing a few sentences about what you envision for your life, and then reduce it down to one simple sentence. When you are asked to take on something new, you can refer back to it and ask, “How does what I am being asked to do fit into this vision and the goals I have for my life?  Do I really have the time right now to complete this task well?”  The vision statement will become a tangible way of helping you think through decisions of saying yes or no. 

Amazingly, instead of limiting what you do – it will open up new opportunities. 

By focusing on what you love and care deeply about, there is more passion (and energy) for the tasks you do volunteer to complete.