Habit 3 is Put First Things First. To live a more balanced life, we must recognize that not doing everything is okay. There’s no need to overextend yourself. It’s all right to say no when necessary and then focus on your highest priorities.
Things that appear urgent are not necessarily important. Important things are timeless — family, home, self-renewal. Things can be urgent and important, but never let somebody else’s poor planning create an emergency for you.
In our homes, planning ahead relieves the burden of having to constantly make decisions. Knowing what you want to accomplish for the day, the week, and in the long run is important for organizing and prioritizing.
Suggested Activity
Ask your child to make a list of the three most important things he/she thinks should be accomplished for the day. Repeat this activity for one week so that your child starts to pick out the most important priorities.