Why to Be Productive

Parents are more stressed than ever.

In fact, almost half of all parents are completely overwhelmed.

In an advisory recently released by the Surgeon General, he stated:

“A recent study by the American Psychological Association revealed that 48 percent of parents say most days their stress is completely overwhelming.”

Parenting is TOUGH.

There are serious joys that come with parenting,
but there are serious worries as well.

The Surgeon General highlighted three key factors impacting parents today:

1. Loneliness
2. Increased working hours
3. The culture of comparison

Today - I want to focus on #2. Parents are working more hours than ever.

This is because of the economy.
I’m no expert on economics, but I do know our grocery bill is out of control.
Parents are working more hours to make more money.

That helps financial stress… but deepens family stress.

I don’t believe in work/life balance.
At no point have a I had a feeling that everything is perfectly balanced.
If it did, something would blow up at home or work.
Life doesn’t play out clean and balanced.

I hear talk about work/life integration.
I struggle with this one too (mostly because my place of work is not kid friendly).
Integrating work into life feels like I’m making excuses to work more.

Perhaps I’m off there, but the things below have actually helped me.

Communicate openly: When I talk to my wife about my stress, she consistently steps up and does things to help out. She doesn’t know what she doesn’t know though. Open up.

Set boundaries: When you’re with your family, be with your family. Upping the quality of the time can help with the quantity is down. Stay off your phone and be present!

Exercise: Get out of bed and exercise. If you do it, you won’t regret it. You feel great and are ready to tackle the day.

Delegate tasks: Don't be afraid to ask for help. Whether it's from your family or friends, delegating tasks can free up time and reduce stress.

Get more productive: Be ferocious about your time. Say no to non-value-add tasks. Focus on things that move the needle. Time block. Put your phone away and get after it.

These things won’t completely remove stress, but they have been noticeably helpful for me.

What have you found that helps?

I hope you have a great week!!

God Bless,
Matt Virgin