1.   Know who matters most.

Who are you most interested in influencing?  Annually update the list; though your kids and close family remain constant, others come and go according to family dynamics and the ages of your kids.

2.   Know how much you have.

Define your available resources of time, energy, focus, money, etc. and prioritize best uses to help you quickly say ‘yes’ to opportunities and ‘no’ to mere possibilities.

3.   Know what you do well.

Honestly evaluate your strengths, talents, interests, challenges, and dislikes.  Update/hone skills where you can and find quality replacements for everything else.  Always play to your strengths.

4.   Know your parenting promises.

Hold your parenting promises top of mind and measure every decision and action by its ability to help you make good on them.

5.   Know when to help others.

Share wisdom freely with your kids, family, parenting peers, etc., but only with permission.

6.   Know how to expand. 

Think collaboratively rather than competitively and consider new options.  Yes, you’ll stretch your comfort zone, but that’s a good thing.

7.   Know your options.

Do your homework before making choices.  Consider knowledgeable advice, recommended guidelines, peer reviews, and always rely on your own sound judgment.  See number 3.

8.   Know what you’re doing.

Set reasonable goals that can be objectively measured.  Consider the abilities of others so that you avoid frustration or self-handicapping.

9.   Know how to pamper yourself. 

Ensure you’ve reserved plenty of time to care for yourself.  Without you, all the work is for nothing.  Keep in mind the distinction between selfishly generous vs. selfishly self-righteous.

10.  Know what’s next for you.

Plan your encore career—the awesome thing you’ll do once you’ve set your kids on their sturdy legs. It’s like working yourself out of your job – when they don’t “need” you to run their lives, how will you use your time and experience?

Related Articles:  Your Human is Showing,

Related Tip of the Week:  Problem Crumb Trail, Recognize Perfection,

Chime in >>