Now that the new year is here, it’s an important time to reflect on what’s behind us and what lies ahead of us. It’s a time to give thanks and gratitude for all the accomplishments in 2022, no matter how big or how small. As I gaze out the window, I think about the last few months of holidays, events and festivals and all the joys of the season. Welcome 2023!

The biggest lesson learned for me over the past year is to not try to cram in as much as possible, but instead, pace myself, organize and prioritize. If you’re trying to scramble and finish up those goals you set for yourself for the last year, slow down and take one step at a time. At least that is what I keep telling myself! Putting your eggs in different baskets is perfectly fine – as long as there are only a few baskets. A wise person recently told me not to try to do (or be) all things for all people. So true.

Warren Buffet said you shouldn’t work on more than 5 things at once. It’s part of the 5/25 Rule. It goes like this:

1. Write down a list of your 25 career goals (or other types of goals). They can be short-term or long-term goals.
2. Circle the 5 most important goals.
3. Cross all the other goals off your original list and forget about them. Yes, cross them off your list!

The third step helps you consciously classify your goals into one or two categories: do or do not. You can use the 5/25 rule to help you focus on the most important goals first and avoid being distracted by less important items. This can effectively free up some mental resources so that you’re not worrying about too many things. You can even apply the 5/25 rule to hobbies, housework, and other types of to do lists. With more time on our hands, we can connect with others, plan fun events, and do more things we enjoy.

I like the idea of the 5/25 rule and I’m going to give it a try. There’s only so much time in a day, week, or month, so let’s give the 5/25 rule a try to reduce the lists in our lives. Will you try the 5/25 Rule?

"Just For a Laugh" Writer's Joke of the Season 

Why are writers cold?

Because they are surrounded by so many drafts!