I began this program the first week of January, and although I'm really excited and feel this will help tremendously, I am REALLY struggling to find time for everything.

I teach high school English, and by the time I finish work, exercise, correct papers, try to get some housework done, and read my daily devotional, I'm EXHAUSTED! (I'm so blessed my husband understands [and cooks!]- and I'm glad we don't have kids yet, because I simply can't imagine.) It seems like a couple days go by before I can get back into the program, and I feel totally behind. It seems like there just aren't enough hours in the day.

It's stressing me out! I'm a total perfectionist, and I've been trying really hard to say, "So what!" I've suffered from anxiety for nearly nine years, who cares if it takes me two weeks or even three to get through the weekly schedule?

Does anyone else have this problem? I'd really appreciate some suggestions.

Much thanks,
fischee

I know where you are coming from. I have 4 kids and it is hard to find time. I stay home, so I can only imagine if I had a job on top of that. I just have to make the time sometimes I feel selfish, but I am doing this because I know my family and I will all benefit from this program. God bless, and keep pluggin away at it.

I too am really struggling w/time management. I'm doing the program 2nd time now with a coach and from the lst lesson it's been a struggle with this. I do spend a lot of time on here. I do suppose that's part of the problem. I also am so tired much of the time. Give yourself credit for exercising at least. It is fine to take longer. It may be better for you in the long run not to rush. I felt I rushed thru it the first time. Now it still is too fast of a pace depending what's going on. The coaching is every week and sometimes I haven't done the complete lesson or I cram on the day before. It would be better to be consistent every day but it doesn't seem like reality for me. I also get frustrated because I don't keep up with the bills or my checkbook. My coach said I'm still doing the things I want first before doing the really important. Ok, so don't know if I helped. It may help just knowing, sounds like you're doing the best you can. Keep on. Many people quit the program. You're not a quitter. So what if it takes longer than one week for each lesson. You also don't have kids like the mom of 4 below and you have a husband who understands so those are your blessings. You will do fine, just keep on and don't quit.

fischee,

As a former high school English teacher, I marvel that you have the energy to exercise, correct papers, do housework, and read your devotional. I'd be exhausted, too, if I were doing all of that. I'm not surprised that there aren't enough hours in your day. And being a perfectionist (like me) doesn't help at all, does it?

Even without your schedule demands, I don't always keep up with the program schedule. And I don't worry about it. It's my life, my anxiety, my depression, my program. I'm compassionate enough with myself to allow for falling behind. Okay, so I may not get an "A" on this project. I can live with that. Give yourself an "A" for even trying to add this program to your already hectic schedule. Make the program work for you; don't work for the program.

I often don't have time to listen to the full CD in one sitting, or even in one day, so I just make a note to remind myself where I stopped on the CD, such as at #12, and then pick it up from there when I can. I do the same with the guidebook, just inserting a bookmark when I need to stop. It isn't worth the extra anxiety to me to worry about maintaining the recommended schedule. That would be defeating the purpose of trying this program, I think.

Don't you give your students some extra time to grasp a concept when they can't quite get it? Don't you allow them to rewrite some of their work? Aren't you lenient with them, especially when you know that they are sincerely trying, and doing their absolute best? Do you deserve any less consideration than that? I don't think so. Pat yourself on the back for having the courgage to try to make positive changes in your life from which everyone, you, your husband, and your students, will benefit. You're doing the work; set your own pace.

BFG

I haven't even tried any further than the jump start today and am concerned (trying not to use "worry") about the time factor. However, knowing there are others out there struggling is a help and reminding outselves we're not perfect, just human, will help. Also, the time investment now compared with the improvement in our lives is definitely worthwhile, don't ya think?

Hello to all my struggling comrades I remember a few years ago when I had a project that needed done but I just couldn't get myself to start on it coz I always worried that I wouldn't be able to finish it. I'm one of those who want Rome to be built in one day, and I used to almost destroy myself trying. Somehow I got the idea to work on this project that needed done, for one hour each day-to set an alarm clock for an hour, work on the project until the alarm went off--with no pressure to finish it before then. It amazed me how much I accomplished in that one hour!

I'm trying to set up a routine for myself to start the program. Since I retired 2 years ago I have had a very hard time following any 'good' routine. At least we're still struggling--not giving up!

Good luck and God bless you all.
Ballpoint

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Hello
Just wanted to check in. I received the kit this afternoon. Brain too tired to tackle anything new today. Will get a fresh start tomorrow.

Pop in that c.d. and listen to it when ever you get a few moments. Lunch hours, breaks, in the car, recess or commons, listen to it while you're on the treadmill or bike. Like the other poster said, make a note of where you left it and come back to it. And then do it again and again as it's recommended to listen to it several times. I think that it's not only important for YOU to listen to it, it's also important for your subconcious to hear it whether or not you actually catch everything that's being said every time. I find that the more I listen to it, the more I get from it. Stuff that I didn't catch the 1st or 2nd time. I can be horrible at time, but you just have to do it! Good luck- Totally suggest the book by Shad Helmstetter, "what to say when you talk to yourself," as recommended reading.

A hundred thanks to all who responded! I don't know if I can adequately express my gratitude for everyone's encouragement and suggestions. Just knowing there are others out there who have this same challenge (though I wish none of us did!) is reassuring.

Just a quick note to all of you:

Karmomma4- don't kid yourself, being a full-time mom is far more difficult than simply going to work everyday. While I don't know personally, many of my mom friends express the difficulty in finding time for themself. Congratulations on taking this step!

Barb- I totally feel guilty about spending time on this site instead of doing my "homework," but I think it's just as valuable and healthy to respond to others and receive encouragement. As for bills, the reality is they have to get paid. It would definitely be nice if we could just stop our lives and work the program (Have you read Eat, Pray, Love? If so, it really annoyed me she was able to "escape" life for an entire year with no financial responsibilities.), unfortunately, this isn't the case for most of us. You're doing great; keep it up!

BFG- Your analogy of this program in relation to my students hit me like a ton of bricks (cliche, I know). Your advice gave me an entirely new perspective. Also, as a former high school teacher, I know you can relate and I value your opinion. What subject did you teach?

rlwp- I absolutely agree this an investment in the quality of life. Here's to "the joy of life" for all of us!

Ballpoint- What a great idea to put a time limit on tasks. Opps, looks like my alloted time is up... HA! Thanks for your suggestion.

DreamGirl- WELCOME! I'm so glad you've become a mmber of this supportive community. I'm looking forward to reading more of your posts.

StayingPositive- I never considered listening or watching the materials in segments; I just felt obligated to finish. This helps me a great deal- thanks to both you and BFG. I do listen to the relaxation CD in the morning while getting ready for work, and it seems to 'ground' me. I'll also look into the book you suggested. Do you read for entertainment?

Again, much thanks to everyone. I'm going to repost a strategy that works for me when I'm really crunched for time. Maybe some of you will find it helpful.

Blessings to all.
fischee

I really struggle to stay focused and manage time to the best of my ability. This may sound odd, but I had a Christian colleague tell me that when she is really pressed for time, she asks God to stretch it for her.

Ever since she suggested this, I've prayed for the same in tight situations, and God has ALWAYS honored this request. I've also asked for focus and discipline, and, again, my needs are met. Every morning I ask the Lord to accompany me to work and be my strength, and on the way home, I thank Him for getting me through the day.

While I am VERY thankful for this program (I just started and am on week 2), it's been sheer FAITH that has sustained me thus far.

I agree that the perfectionist is part of the big problem with managing time. I always tended to be an overachiever and fit everything into the day. This only contributed to my stress and anxiety. I suffered for more than 30 years with this. Lucinda's program was a huge help. Stick with it! I'm over the problem now, am very peaceful and centered. It's wonderful. I even wrote a book called "Anxiety Rescue" and in it offered all the strategies I learned that help keep my life simple, free from fear and focused on enjoying life. Talk about the need to manage time? Try writing a book. But, no way will I ever stray into anxiety any more, because learning to manage my time better keeps me centered. Once you learn to call it quits for the day and give yourself a break...you are on your way. Speaking of which, think I'll go get a good laugh and watch the Ellen Show I TiVo'd. Hugs to all...hang in there!

BarbG,
I signed up for the coaching sessions thinking it would help me more than the program itself. So it is a struggle even with a coach? I think I do what I want rather than what I would be better for me too. thank you for that observation.

Kathryn Tristan,
Thank you for the encouragement about sticking with the program. And that you are over the problem. That is what I long for.

I find I listen to the cd's, but when it comes to the homework, I am pretty behind, I wasn't going to do it, but now I do want to go back and do some of it and get more out of the program. My parents spent the money and I don't want to waste it, and I do want to get better.

fishee
I understand all you responsiblities. Although i became retired when i had gotten the program, and my kids are grown. I still felt like I had to do everything, cooking , cleaning, shopping, paying bills, and they all had to be done RIGHT now!!
I was an obssessive house cleaner myself.. Ive learned that NO ONE is perfect, and striving for it, is an impossible task.
So, maybe you could get your husband to help with cooking and cleaning, or just clean once a week,, i know that sounds terrible,, but you need some YOU time, so you can do the program
and it will also help you change your priorities some.
It did me. Life is very stressful and you are really Full of things you need to do. But in doing all that, your forgetting yourself... Trust me the house will still be there,, dusty or not! exercising is good! SOmewhere in your scedule, you can make 30 minutes for YOU!!
I wish you luck

Fish
I too am a teacher I also coach basketball on top of that and I'm a single parent. Talk about demands on your schedule. Anyway I've been taking the cd to work and listening during my plan time. I listen and work. It seems to help. Also keeps me from getting involved in the bs that goes on at work which is sometimes the source of my anxiety. Nothing says don't bother me like a pair of headphones!

Jugray,
I hear you loud and clear about the bs. I usually shut and LOCK the door to my classroom; HOWEVER, I've actually had teachers (twice now) unlock and open it. I swear sometimes colleagues are worse than students.

I know work is the root of my anxiety right now (it has been for some time). Thank God I'm going on sabbatical next year. As much as I love the direct interaction with students, I simply can't deal with the rest of the crap. Hopefully a year off will restore my faith in education. I've never been anything but a student or a teacher... (?)

How's your season going? For several years our team was pretty good; we actually have a former student who currently plays for the Bulls. What do you teach?
fischee