Last week over a healthy breakfast with a young professional and artist we discussed how to maintain balance between your professional, family and personal life.  They are building their contact lists, financial base, and discovering who they are and what God wants them to do.  Behind our laughter about our roles and responsibilities there was some real stress.  We agree that the truth of Matthew 6:33 would guide our lives.  “Seek the kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.”  Isn’t that an incredible promise!

Here is a little of what we outlined on a paper napkin.

Define our roles.  I’m a person, partner (husband), parent, pastor and a pilgrim.

Draft a personal missions statement that addresses your roles.

Capture in one place everything we need to do.  I do this with a PDA, my wife uses good ole fashioned paper.

Carve out what I should delegate.  If someone can do the task at least 65% as well you can release it.

Commit to your calendar what is important to each of your roles.  I keep three color coded calendars in one place.  My wife and assistant have access to these calendars.  They also manage them for me.

The rest can either go into a dream file, maybe someday or trash.

Balancing these roles means getting the important things done to be successful in each of our roles.

Let’s break this out for the rest of the week, along with some helpful resources.

Peace and Joy!