My current season of life is full. Everyday is a different variation of the same––morning routine, different work schedule, different childcare, lunches, nap schedules, dinner prep, evening routine, bedtime, then get all the other things done or totally crash. Throw in Bible study, playdates, and errands, and we’ve got a very full week.
Your season may look similar to mine or totally different. Maybe you are dreaming of a season other than the one you’re in or grieving the loss of a season passed. We often find ourselves in survival mode and (even if we don’t want to admit it) wishing our current season away. Regardless of where you are, I believe more than ever that life really does happen in seasons. I also believe it is critical that we step back and ask ourselves the following question:
How can I thrive in my current season?
Guys, I do not have this figured out. But, a few weeks ago, I realized that I was in full on survival mode and I made the choice to thrive, instead of just survive. Here are three tips that I have found helpful:
1. Be ok with saying “no.”
Sometimes you just need to say “no” to things––the birthday party, making homemade treats, an extra event or after school activity, etc. Be self-aware and do not overcommit yourself; this is harder for some than others. You know yourself and any other family members in your care. Saying “no” simply allows you to say “yes” to what is most important. Some seasons are just extra full and that’s ok. However, if you struggle with the concept of saying “no” so that you can say “yes” to what is more important, I encourage you to check out one of the following books: The Best Yes by Lysa TerKeurst or The Best Question Ever by Andy Stanley.
2. Make changes, when needed.
Just because your season is full does not mean that changes cannot be made. You may need to get slightly creative. For example, I was becoming overwhelmed by housework I could not seem to stay on top of when I heard a podcast with several recommendations for simplifying cleaning. Two things stood out to me: (1) start a load of laundry every morning that you’ll put it away by the end of the same day , and (2) run your dishwasher at night and empty it every morning.
I don’t do these things perfectly, but they have radically improved my sanity. For you, your needed changes may not include housework. Maybe it’s finding time to study God’s Word, exercise, or do food prep. Do not be afraid to try something new to see if it helps you in your current season. If the change isn’t beneficial, try another change instead.
3. Embrace it.
Remember, this season is only a season. Ecclesiastes 3:1 reminds us, “For everything there is a season, a time for every matter under heaven.” So embrace the season that is! Change your mindset from survival mode, especially if the end of your season is not in sight. You may have to take the store bought side dish or the take out meal instead of preparing something homemade. You may need to have a conversation with your spouse or roommates about their expectations or yours. You may need to leave the sink full of dishes so you can get a few extra minutes with your kids before bedtime. Things won’t stay this way forever, whether your season is good or bad. So embrace today and be present in your current season.
I hope these tips will be as helpful for you as they have been for me. Regardless of what season you find yourself in, God’s Word assures that He wants you to do more than just survive, He wants you to thrive!
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” – John 10:10 (ESV)
Meet the Author!
Casey Yates is a wife, mom, daughter, sister, friend and speech-language pathologist. Casey loves all things Christmas, British historical fiction, walks, pie and coffee. Lots of coffee.
