What are your priorities? I don’t mean your errand list hastily scribbled this morning on a Post-It that lists detergent, toilet paper, asparagus and cold cuts… I mean what are your priorities?
pri·or·i·ty: the right to precede others in order, rank, privilege, etc.;precedence.
It’s not only critical that we each define what ranks above other things but that we actually put our money where our mouth is and give those things the precedence WE have decided they deserve.
We all know people who claim not to live for their career yet place the corporate ladder directly in front of their children, their health and their ultimate happiness. How about the young girl who claims that time with her friends is a priority over time spent with a new boyfriend? Students who claim studies are their priority but who routinely skip homework in favor of parties? Our “priorities” are often what we give the least attention. True story.
To complicate matters further, what happens if our spouse or significant other doesn’t share our priorities? Recipe for conflict…and, in my effort to more deeply share, I will tell you that I know this personally. I’m not sharing this to disparage anyone or point the finger; I’m sharing this because it’s important that we all recognize what’s going on in our own relationships and take steps, if necessary, to align. That is, if the relationship is a priority for you. 🙂
Don’t get hobbies and interests confused with priorities. I’m talking about the BIG picture painted with the BIG brush. Do my husband and I have the same priorities for our lives? Are we moving in the same direction with commonalities that compliment one another?
My priority list for 2012 is pretty easy and I am listing them here in no particular order… these are the things I have determined take precedence over other things…the things I will nurture and protect even if there is a personal sacrifice involved…the things I value and give special ranking to.
- God
- Family
- Health
- Joy