Christopher Harper

Sometimes we get the idea that being busy means getting things done. It does not. Sometimes it doesn't even mean we are actually working! Instead we can be actively pursuing that which is not important, that which does not help us reach our goals, or that which is a simple waste-of-time.

I am doing some re-evaluation of my work right now. Frankly, I have too much on my plate that I am not sure will ever get me to the desired destination. Yes, it is getting done, but how much does it count?

I enjoy keeping up this lifestream. It gives me a simple place to collect my online thoughts throughout the week. Very few people actually read it - unless they are looking for another Christopher Harper on Google. That being said, at least it helps me to visualize and organize the items I have been reading, thinking about and writing.

If all of my other work was so neatly organized, whether it be at the office or at home, I would likely not be conducting this re-consideration.

In the end, two themes are indeed at play: prioritization and organization. If one can determine the things that are truly important, they can arrange their life in a manner that pushes other, distracting things to the side. That is what every one of us should be doing regularly.

On a day like today, I am looking for things to drop, cancel, eliminate, reduce, set aside or destroy. I am going to start with attitudes and behaviors, then move on to tasks, material goods and maybe even some relationships.

Time to stop being busy and start being diligent; to stop forging ahead and start looking ahead. If not today...when?