A couple weeks ago, I began taking an early parenting Bible study at church. My reason: I have a desire to be a more intentional parent, not just relive my own parents’ styles. Interestingly, we have talked about children a little, but the main focus of our time is spent talking about marriage.
So the premise is that a healthy, happy marriage is the most valuable gift you can give your children.
(Obviously, they address issues of single parenthood, but so much of the focus has been on marriage.)
The first week’s activity has been on my mind for days. The instructor gave us a piece of paper with a large circle. It represented the time we have while we’re not sleeping, and our job was to divvy up the pie according to how much time each day we spend on each activity.
Here are some areas we included: playing with kids, work, watching television, chores, worship, reading, spending time with friends, cooking, transportation, spending time using technology, creative activities, fitness and time along with spouse.
If I am being really honest about how I spend my day. Really honest. I would be so embarrassed for you to know how little time I spend on things that mean so much to me and how much time I spend on some things that don’t have a firm grip on my heart. (Just to clarify: I spend most of Jackson’s waking hours playing with him, but I take issue with how I spend my “free” time.)
It’s an exercise to see where your priorities are RIGHT NOW, not where you want them to be. I invite you to do this activity, too. It is amazing what is revealed and how it can change your behavior in the coming days.
How do you prioritize your time? Is there an area that needs more time and attention?
© 2010, Amy. All rights reserved.
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You’re killing me, Amy! See, I just prefer to keep my head in the sand then get all miffed when my kids turn out all freaky-deaky.
Ok, in reality? I thought I made my free time with the boys a priority, but a few months ago I heard my youngest tell my oldest, “Mom’s not listening to me. She’s smiling at the computer again.” It stabs my heart to even bring it up again. That is why the very next day I made a very strict schedule and I’ve stuck to it. I want my children to know that I would rather smile at them then some piece of technology any given moment.
Jenny, you’re awesome. You hit it right on the head–I spend TOO much time on my computer. All of the sudden, I look up and it’s 3 hours later! I was shocked at how little time I get to actually spend alone with my sweet hubby, just chatting, and how little time I spend reading and worship. So basically, I need to do better! But that’s always the mantra around here!!
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