Change

Things in life are always changing. We may find a comfortable spot for a few weeks or months, but then another change enters and we have to find a way to work those changes into our lives. Sometimes the changes are so small that we do not always give them their full weight, which can leave us feeling frustrated or confused as to why things are not the same or why simple things suddenly feel so much more complicated. 

A move, a new baby, marriage, divorce, loss of a loved one, injury, illness, children growing and changing (which means their abilities and needs change, too), new employment, travel, vacations, and even the change in seasons when you have different expectations such as being outside more or spending more time at home together: all of these things and many more can throw kinks and wrenches in even the best laid plans. 

When things are no longer "how we planned" how do we continue to do things that were once important to us and still get those things done that are necessary? Acknowledging that changes have happened (and will continue to happen) is the first step. Often we go through major, life-shaking things and get upset when we cannot figure how to get things "back to normal". After realizing the change, accept that things are now different and the new normal is something that you will have to figure out. It can take a few days, or months to find what will actually fit into your life or how you will be able to clean the house, pay the bills and still find time for soul-filling moments that sustain and give you purpose. 

When we moved to the house we currently live in it was a big change for me. It tripled our house space, which was wonderful and we chose that, but I had to allow myself time to get used to cleaning much more space. My children were small and so we just didn't use much of the basement for a while, which helped me adjust and not worry about some of those rooms for weeks at a time. I had to take some time to change my chore list and let myself be okay that things took longer to clean because there was more space to clean. This same move also tripled our yard space and my husband and I suddenly had so much more to weed, mow, trim and water. It was an adjustment, and adjustments take time. Looking back now, I am so grateful we took the time to acknowledge the huge changes in our life and to revise the chore list based on the new needs of the situation. This house and yard no longer feel huge and overwhelming. 

So when changes comes, big or small, be willing to take a step back, acknowledge the change and figure out what things needs to be added to or taken off your list because of that change and what things are so important that you must keep them. If they are keepers, you will find a way to get them done with the changes in your life. Making adjustments in your expectations will help you realize that you are in control of what you spend your time on and what matters most.