Last week, I completely missed an important lunch date with a friend. It was something I had been looking forward to – and it was on the calendar where it shouldn’t have been overlooked. But when she texted me to confirm just 10 minutes before our scheduled meeting, I knew instantly I had messed up. I had entirely forgotten our appointment.
This doesn’t happen to me often because I’m slightly Type A when it comes to my calendar. But when it does happen, it’s always a result of one thing – I had neglected to conduct my Sunday Summit.
The Sunday Summit is a weekly meeting I hold with myself to get organized and focused for the week. I borrowed the name from a mentor of mine, although I adapted her process to fit my lifestyle.
If you’re like most women in ministry, you’re juggling many different roles and responsibilities. And even though you are good about keeping your calendar up-to-date and managing your ever-expanding “To Do” list, things inevitably slip through the cracks. The Sunday Summit is my attempt to prevent that from happening. And it has the added bonus of helping me prioritize, reflect and communicate.
Here’s how it works in 7 simple steps:
- Establish a regular day and time for your weekly meeting. I like to plan on Sunday afternoons – after church and before dinner. But some ladies I know prefer Friday afternoons or Monday mornings. Just pick a specific time and day that works for you and stick with it so you create a habit.
- Find a quiet spot where you won’t be interrupted or distracted. You’ll need a pen, paper and your calendar.
- Start by writing down your accomplishments from the previous week. This is your chance to acknowledge successes, both big and small, and celebrate the progress made.
- Then, write down three (only three!) priorities for the week. I allow myself three personal/family priorities and three work/ministry priorities. Keeping the list short will help you stay focused.
- Next, write down any errands, activities, special events, etc. that you need to do this week. Include a statement about one thing you will do for yourself the following week.
- While you focus on everything you need to do, it’s important to also think about the person you want to be. Do you want to be patient? Generous? Happy? Write it down!
- And finally, write down anything you give yourself permission to NOT worry about. This is where you let go of the things that are important but not urgent.
I also use this weekly time to ask God for guidance, courage and wisdom to accomplish the tasks He’s given me with confidence and grace. After you write everything down and get a handle on the week, take a few minutes to discuss activities and expectations with important people in your life, such as your husband, children or babysitters.
The Sunday Summit has been such a help in my own life. I pray that it blesses you and your ministry as it has blessed me. Having a weekly meeting with yourself may just keep you from missing an important deadline or even lunch with a special friend!
Question: What methods do you employ to stay organized in regards to personal and ministry responsibilities?
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