What's the difference between making it happen for you and letting it happen to you?

Ever had one of those weeks that just slipped through your fingers? You get to the end of it and wonder: where did the time go? How did that happen? What could I have done differently?

And perhaps that little voice in your head starts telling you that you should have done more, been more organised, or managed your time better.

It happens to all of us. The important bit is what we do next.

We can notice it, reflect on it, learn from it and try to avoid it happening again. Or we can do all of that and prepare ourselves to catch it when it happens next time. Because let's be realistic: it will happen again. Life doesn't stop throwing things at us just because we have a plan.

So rather than trying to control everything, let's look at how we can stay in control of our own actions.

1. Plan your week 🗓️

Block out time in your calendar that is non-negotiable. Time that doesn't move just because something else comes up.

I would recommend starting with two blocks a day. It doesn't have to be anything big. A 5-minute walk, a 30-minute walk regardless of the weather, making a cup of tea and sitting down for a moment, or doing something you've been putting off.

You get the idea. Put something in your schedule that belongs to you, and protect that time. Work breaks don't count!

2. Set your anchors ⚓

You notice time starting to slip away. Something unexpected happens. Your plans go out the window.

This is the moment to act.

Ask yourself: when this happens, what will I do instead?

Maybe it's taking a breath, stepping away from your desk, going for that walk, or returning to one small task that gets you moving again.

Create a simple "if this happens, I'll do this" plan. Make it personal to you. We all have different triggers and patterns, so if you are not sure what yours are, bring it to our next session and let's explore it together.

3. Absorb it and use it 🚀

Here's the bit I really want you to take away.

You won't catch every moment. You won't stick to every plan. And that's okay.

But the moment you notice yourself slipping and choose to do something about it, you've already changed the outcome.

Be proud of that. You caught a moment that might otherwise have passed you by. You made a choice instead of simply reacting.

And the more you practise this, the more moments you'll catch, the more time you'll reclaim, and the more you'll feel that you're directing your life rather than just being carried along by it.

So here is my question for you

Think back to a moment this week when time started slipping away from you.

What was happening? And what could you put in place to catch that moment next time?

I'm curious to hear what comes up for you.