Always Be Evaluating
It’s really easy to get into a routine and do something just because you’ve always done it.
Well, I always post five times a week, even though it’s exhausting and I often feel uninspired—but I feel like “everyone”’s counting on me, so I’ll just keep doing it this way.
I always sign my emails this way, even though it doesn’t quite feel like me any longer—but I don’t have the energy to come up with and implement a new idea, so I’ll just keep doing it this way.
I always ask this question of new clients even though it never really gets the response I want—but I don’t know what else to ask, so I’ll just keep doing it this way.
I probably go way too far (ask anyone in my life and they’ll nod vigorously), but these days, I’m always evaluating what I’m doing and why I’m doing it. Is this the best use of my time? Do I really need to post this often? Why am I having such a strong reaction to writing this paragraph? My work and personal life have gotten so (beautifully) full that I have to question—I can’t keep doing everything the way I used to just because.
Constant evaluation can feel a little overwhelming—if the answer is, No, this isn’t the best use of my time, I know I’m facing a bit of work because I need to find a new, better way—but I’ve somehow convinced myself to keep my eye on the future. It’s worth a bit of work now to save myself the stress of doing something that feels wrong.
Is there anything you’ve been doing a certain way that you know it’s time to change? I’d love to hear!
Also, I’ve been reading a few things that have inspired me to keep on evaluating. I thought I’d share! Any good resources you’d like to recommend?
Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less by Greg McKeown
I just started reading this book, so I’m not that far in, but I love his idea of “less but better.” He talks about figuring out what’s essential, eliminating the rest, and focusing your energy on those few essential things.
Un-Fancy
Caroline sure knows how to make a capsule wardrobe (an intentionally small, edited collection of clothing pieces you love that can be worn in different combinations throughout a season) look good!
The Minimalists
I saw these two speak in Birmingham a few months ago, and their constant reminder to question what adds value to your life (things, clothes, relationships, and so on) is super inspiring. Here’s a great intro to how they think and talk about minimalism. And here’s another (the first paragraph is a joke—just keep on reading!).
Liz Johnson’s Never-Ending Edit
Liz is constantly evaluating her wardrobe (and the things in her life), and dang, it’s inspiring.