Grief and loss have a way of stopping you in your tracks. But how can you stay stopped when
you have daily demands and responsibilities that are necessary to live? We can quickly be
pushed into survival mode as we try to find ways to cope with responsibilities. Depending on the type of loss, there may be additional responsibilities added to our plate. We may be planning a funeral, settling financial affairs, or filing final tax returns for a loved one. Regardless of the responsibility, it can be helpful to know that it is normal to find time management difficult amidst the grief journey. The following time management strategies may be helpful during this time:
1. Break Tasks into Small Steps: Grief can make it hard to focus or find energy to tackle
large tasks. Breaking tasks down into small, manageable pieces makes them feel less
overwhelming. Start with simple tasks like getting out of bed, having a meal, or going for
a walk.
2. Use a Daily Planner or Journal: Journaling or using a planner can provide structure,
create clarity, and help release overwhelming emotions. It also provides a place to track
tasks without worrying about forgetting them. On a daily and/or weekly basis, write down
a short list of things you hope to accomplish. Include small tasks that are achievable. Be
kind to yourself and adjust when necessary.
3. Set Realistic Expectations: It’s important to acknowledge that your energy and focus
may fluctuate while grieving, and it's okay not to be as productive as usual. Be realistic
about what you can achieve. Focus on one or two important tasks per day.
4. Delegate Tasks When Appropriate: Grieving can deplete your energy and make it
difficult to handle everything by yourself. Asking for help can lighten the load. Reach out
to trusted friends, family, or colleagues who can help with household chores, errands, or
work-related responsibilities.
5. Create a Flexible Routine: Having a routine provides stability during an emotional time,
but it needs to remain flexible. Set a basic daily schedule, but allow flexibility so you can
adjust as needed.
6. Incorporate Breaks into Your Day: Grief often requires more emotional energy, so
breaks are essential. Schedule short breaks throughout the day to rest, go for a walk, or
simply sit quietly for a moment.
7. Allow Yourself Time to Rest and Grieve: Grief is a process that can't be rushed. If you
find yourself feeling overwhelmed, allow yourself the grace to step back and focus on
what you need emotionally without guilt.
8. Celebrate Small Wins: Grieving often makes it hard to feel any sense of
accomplishment. Recognizing small achievements helps foster a sense of progress.
These strategies can be tools to help guide you through the grieving process. Grief is an
individualized experience, so experimenting with these tips at your own pace might be helpful.
Submitted by: Walking Through Grief Society
Funded by FCSS; City of Lloydminster, Towns of Vermilion and Wainwright, Village of Kitscoty, and County of Vermilion River.
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