In Reply to: same dilemma posted by porceleindoll on August 11, 2003 at 17:26:37:
I have one husband, five kids, 7 cats, 2 acres of yard, and a full time job working for a busy attorney. Here's what helps me. I keep it all on paper, not in my head. I have everything listed under Do Today, Errands, Do at Home, Yard work, Do On Computer, Phone Calls to Make, Walmart, Costco, and Grocery store.
Every time I think of stuff to do - Monday morning is when everything hits me usually, but throughout the week I get "hit" with stuff, I add it to the list.
If someone hands me a good book to read or I know there is something on TV I want to watch, I just look at the list and if nothing has to be done right that minute, I just take time off. Then I climb back up on my works trip later.
Having everything before you on paper really does help to get rid of that overwhelmed feeling which is what leads to guilt if you are not doing something.
Taking time off is really, really important. It's like recharging your batteries. Every time I sit back with a good book, I know I'm doing something really good for myself. It's as important as doing the laundry. I'll let my bathroom stay filthy while I take time off. The bathroom can wait. But when the batteries are recharged, I'll start on the bathroom. See? There's a time for resting and a time for working.