Riding Two Horses with One Ass
School is back in session, but dentist appointments don't care about work, meals still need to be made daily, and launching a program while repeatedly trying to find a missing shinguard for soccer practice is not as easy as my mind tells me it should be.
And yet, I love my family life. I'm in a stage of parenting that is both very full and very rewarding. I know this time is fleeting and will go by fast. My kids are old enough to do many things independently, yet young enough to still love snuggling on the couch with me. I love riding this parenting “horse.”
And then there's the work side. I'm launching my new program next week, which would love for you to check out and join. I love curriculum development and envisioning not only the content of the new class but also the rhythm and container of it. How can I make this the most emotionally safe experience? What is the best way to onboard someone? What needs to happen first?
I love my work and seeing people shift their lives for the better. When people show up for themselves, magic happens. This is another “horse” I love to ride.
When I can take turns riding these two horses, life is busy but good. But sometimes, I have to ride them simultaneously, which is when my ass gets sore. This is why summer vacation is challenging for me. Without the support of school, I have to be a full-time mom and a full-time business leader.
You may not have the horse of parenthood or entrepreneurship, but I'm sure you also have horses you are riding. Here are a few common “horses”: work, parenting, marriage/partnership, finances, home management, aging parents, family dynamics, friendships, etc.
So, let's talk about this circus act and how you can move from one to another without getting trampled under the hooves.
What To Do:
Get clear about the horses you're riding. What are the responsibilities on your plate? Some things may be big and fast-paced, others small and stable. When you know the horses you're riding, you can get clear about when it's time to jump from one to another.
Multitasking is a lie. Try writing an email when your child is telling you a story. It doesn't work. So take it one horse at a time. Yes, it sucks when you have competing priorities. Choices need to be made. Choosing one over another means you are taking turns. Choosing both at the same time means everyone loses, including you.
Remember your values and priorities. What is important to you? When making split-second decisions, remember your priorities and act accordingly. This will initially feel dangerous and impossible, like you are fighting the tides. That's OK. The important part is to get clear about what is important to you. The clearer you get, the more likely you are to act accordingly.
Take care of your ass. It's easy to get saddle sore when riding all these horses. Rest can feel impossible when there's so much to do. Take your breaks. Breathe. Drink water. Go outside. Look at nature. Find your micro-moments to recharge so you can get back on those horses.