***Time Boundaries are Key in Calm and Chaotic Times

Time management tools and tips help you plan your time. But our days aren't always predictable. Sometimes life is calm, and we struggle to stay on track. Sometimes chaos rules as life throws us curve ball after curve ball. Maybe distractions swirl around you, calling out for your attention. Or maybe you're confronted with an onslaught of unexpected demands. What do you do?

These are times that test you. They are also challenges that strong time boundaries will get you through. Time boundaries are like the edging that you put around your garden; they keep the weeds from choking your plans.

When Do You Set Time Boundaries, and How?
It's good to know how you use boundaries currently in your life. Some people naturally establish a schedule in advance, but cave in to last-minute appeals. Others may ad-lib their way through the day, yet speak up assertively to stay on track. Where do you fit?

Your productivity and peace of mind dramatically increase as you learn to establish boundaries in both calm and chaotic times. Your boundary-setting serves different functions in these different situations. Either way, though, the benefits create an energizing and empowering spiral of positive reinforcement.

Time Boundaries in Chaotic Times
When you are under pressure, it is hard to set and maintain time boundaries. But it is also vital. You need to set time boundaries to maintain your energy, find breathing space, and to plan and reflect. The more you do this the more confidence you gain; and over time, you will find it easier to be assertive. Your reward will be increased productivity and satisfaction, as you manage whatever is on your plate.

Time Boundaries in Calm Times
During times of calm, time boundaries are equally important. When things are calm the boundaries you establish and the time choices you make are shaping your quality of life. You are embodying your values, moment to moment, and building proactive strengths.

Calm times also offer an opportunity to reflect on your assertiveness skills. How do you communicate your time boundaries to others? You may well discover that by raising issues early on, you experience less conflict and far fewer frayed nerves and mutual recriminations.

Time Boundaries Create Courage
When you appreciate the full power of your time choices you are reinforcing your backbone and building grit. You come to fully comprehend just how much power and how much responsibility for your life you carry in your own two hands.

As you assume that level of ownership, your commitments deepen and your life's moments feel infinitely more meaningful. As your sense of what's important shifts and clarifies, you may find that it's easier to let go of old resentments. Your choices harmonize more fully with your values, and this brings your focus to the here and now.

"Here" is where you always live. "Now" is where all your power resides.

So think through your typical day, and picture the spots where you get stuck or wander off track. Imagine yourself navigating successfully, and see how time boundaries help you. Visualize chaotic and calm times to learn more about how you relate in both circumstances. Then use any and all opportunities to establish boundaries that withstand distractions.

You see, you are defined by the choices you make over time. So, you can think of the time boundaries you set as outlines that help you create a more distinct self. This is a gift that you have the power to give yourself ANY time – one that enriches your life ALL the time!

And to move toward your Heart-Based Time Success, sign up for our free gift, the Finding Time Success Kit, which includes "The New Finding Time Boundary Template: 9 Simple, Sequential Steps to Find More Time and Recharge Your Energy!" Using a workbook format this powerful and practical time template helps you progress beyond disappointment and frustration. Discover that 24 hours really are enough!

Offered by Paula Eder, Ph.D., The Time Finder Expert.