The dictionary defines “Priority” as something important that must be done first or needs more attention than anything else or something given special attention.

It’s a pretty simple concept. Some things are more important than others and should then therefore be given priority.

And yet, putting that into action can seem very difficult. Especially when we’re unclear about what our priorities are.

When you become the parent of a child with special needs your priorities in life seem to suddenly change…drastically!

Suddenly this little being can become your biggest priority, an all consuming, above everything else, priority around which your entire life revolves.

And understandably. We’ve given life to this little person and we feel that giving them nothing less than 200% of our effort to give them the best life possible should be our number one priority…always, every day, every hour, every minute…we’re always thinking about what we can do next to ensure we’re doing our absolute best.

But is that realistic? Is it sustainable? Is it healthy? And at whose expense are you maintaining this priority?

And even if you’ve clearly defined your priorities, are you actually living them or are you constantly distracted by other, less important things? Are you actively paying attention to your priorities? Or are they more like that New Year’s Resolution that goes by the wayside by January 2nd?

Today I’d like for all of us to consider our priorities. This can be a huge topic so we’re going to keep it pretty basic for now.

Let’s start by writing down your top 6 priorities. Need some suggestions to get started? Physical and emotional health, your marriage, your children, family, friends, work, education, travel and leisure.

Now, make a list of your daily activities and how much time you spend on each activity. And be honest! Start from the minute you wake up until you go to bed at night. Now compare your two lists. Do they match up?

The way we live our life tells the truth about our priorities. Are we actually living them or are we just paying them lip service?

Now…here comes what should be the easiest part, but is often the hardest. From your list, choose your number one priority.

Here’s a hint…..IF IT’S NOT YOURSELF IT SHOULD BE!

If you’re not looking after yourself you can’t take care of others. There’s a saying that goes something like, fill your own cup first and then fill others’ with the overflow.

Now trust me, I’m no saint when it comes to always keeping my priorities in line. I’m distracted sometimes and make excuses with the best of them. But it’s the times when I’m feeling overwhelmed, worn out and unfocused that remind me to take a step back, realign my priorities and look after myself.

Making changes so that the way you live is aligned with your priorities doesn’t happen overnight. In these times of instant messaging, instant potatoes and instant gratification we expect things to happen quickly.

But think of it this way. You didn’t get here overnight. So you’re not going to change overnight.

Change also requires small, incremental steps. Suddenly changing things is overwhelming.

So here’s my challenge to you this week. Write down your priorities for yourself. No one else. Just you. Then meet me back here next week and we’ll take that list and put it into action.

And guess what, I’m going to do this with you! I’ll let you in on some of my priorities and we can work on this together.

Necklace Giveaway

This necklace was generously donated by Randi S. a fellow mom of a child with autism. Thanks Randi!

If you feel like sharing your list of priorities for yourself, please do so!! Everyone who leaves a comment below will be entered to win a beautiful Robin’s egg necklace. The winner’s necklace will have white “eggs” in the nest.
For additional entries into the draw just click any or all of the buttons below and share this article to Twitter, Facebook etc.
The winner will be announced in next Monday’s blog post along with our NEXT giveaway!
Good luck!!

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Filed under: acceptance, ADHD, autism, busy moms, giveaway, Monday Musings, parent education, self-esteem, special needs parenting, Success