1. Everyone Is Replaceable



When female executives were asked what they wished they had learned earlier in their careers, many responded that they wish they knew they were replaceable. No matter how critical you are, if you are not available to take on an assignment someone or something else will fill that void. Keeping in mind that we are replaceable helps us to maintain perspective when they want us to head up that fundraising committee or to drive the extra carpool shift.

2. Evaluate Your Time Honestly

Whether at work or at home, saying "ok" tends to be a reflex because we are so used to trying to do it all. Not only does this eat up our personal time and leave us overwhelmed, it can also breed resentment: Why am I always the one who has to do it?

The first step to regaining control of your personal time is to pause. Simply pausing before allowing more to be added to your plate interrupts the "take more on" reflex. Evaluate:

* What do I already have on my plate?

* Do I WANT to do it?

* If I say yes to this, where will the time come from?

* What feelings do I have about what is being asked of me?

Often times, identifying the underlying feelings helps us evaluate what our response should really be and helps us stop saying "yes" when we really mean "no."

3. Even Machines Need a Tune-Up

Remember that if you schedule yourself like a machine, even machines need a tune-up. Have one thing you do that is just for you and actually put time in your calendar each day or week for that event. No matter how busy things get, make that one item non-negotiable. When things get really tight, what else will you choose not to do if your personal time cannot be forced out?

4. Breaks Create a Fresh Perspective

You sit down for a moment to take a breath and your head starts spinning due to all of the things that you need to do. Stop, and remind yourself that by resting and breaking from the activity you are working on, you free yourself to take on a fresh perspective. Often the best solutions and mood alterations occur after a short break even if it is just a walk to the water cooler or a cup of tea.

5. Start Small and Slowly Reset the expectations Often, our personal time disappears because we have set the expectation that we are always available, or we can do it all. Regaining personal time requires us to slowly reset the expectations. For example, pick a time each day to turn your cell phone off, or set off-duty hours at home. You can start small by letting people know that you will not be available. When your personal time is interrupted, ask the person if they would mind coming back later. Eventually people will adjust to the new expectation.

Quick Tips for Fitting a Break Into Your Routine:

* Take lunch to actually eat lunch

* Take your meeting on a walk

* Keep a book in the car

* Exercise

* Indulge in simple pleasures whether it is sitting quietly until you finish a piece of chocolate or taking a bath before bed. Take a moment to spoil yourself.