We’re a month and a half into back to school and my to-do list is a mile long and 18 months old. Yup, the age of an adorable toddler.

When the world turned on its ear in March 2020, I moved my in-office therapy practice to fully virtual so that I could navigate the unpredictability of distance learning.

And all the work projects, creative ideas, and pressing tasks were put on pause. A very long pause.

Sure, I saw all my clients and completed my session notes, but that really was about it… for a really long time.

For a task-oriented sort of person, this was really, really hard. I felt like I was falling behind, constantly coming in last, and honestly, like I was failing at running my business.

Well, I picked up that Q1 2020 to-do list the other day and I discovered a lot.

I discovered that even though it feels like a reminder of the endless tasks that I need to catch up on… it was so much more than that.

It was actually a really cool reminder that despite being relatively unproductive for a long time, I was given the unique opportunity to be more present than I think I ever have.

Now I’m no expert in this. I’m just learning. But I’m working really hard to…

Choose present over productive.

Because when I do, I’m kinder, more creative, and a lot calmer.  I feel like I’ve gotten to know my family more.  I am feeling more grounded and aligned with the work projects I want to do.  And it’s kinda fun.

This week, I encourage you to put the to-do list down and practice choosing present over productive.

Slow down a bit and see how it helps you reconnect with each other.

It’s not a cure-all… but it sure helps to weather what life is handing you.  Slow down and be a bit more present...  together.

Until next week,

-A

P.S. If you’re struggling to be present and overwhelmed with busyness... please reach out. I’m here to support and encourage in all the ways I can.