Stop Trying to Do Everything! How the Rule of 3 Can Transform Your Life

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Have you ever felt that overwhelming tug of endless tasks, responsibilities, and dreams pulling you in every direction, all at once? If so, you’re definitely not alone. Many of us live with the persistent background hum of expectations—to be more, do more, and achieve more. But let's pause for a moment and breathe.

In a world that constantly shouts, "do more, be more," I want to share a strategy that has helped me reclaim my peace and productivity. It's simple, yet transformative: the Rule of Three.

The Myth of Doing It All

Let's start with a hard truth: You cannot do everything at once, and that’s perfectly okay. If you’re anything like me, you’ve felt the pressure to juggle it all—parenting, work, self-care, social obligations—while trying to maintain an air of perfection. It’s exhausting.

Those Instagram-perfect moms or Pinterest-ready homes that seem effortlessly flawless? Trust me, there’s always more to the story. Maybe they have extra help, or maybe they’re facing struggles hidden from public view. Perfection is a myth, and pursuing it only brings frustration.

I remind myself daily: "It is impossible to do it all well at the same time." And that’s not just reassuring—it's freeing.

Understanding Your Bandwidth

Life is seasonal. What I could handle ten years ago isn't what I can handle now, and that’s okay. 

When I was a new parent, I had to accept that my bandwidth looked very different than when my kids became more independent. Understanding your current capacity and embracing your season is key.

Take a moment to think about your life right now. Are you giving yourself grace for the season you’re in?

The Magic of Three

There is something truly magical about the number three. Productivity experts, including J.D. Meyer in "Getting Results the Agile Way," advocates for focusing on three priorities. Here’s why:

• Three things to focus on daily
• Three key accomplishments in a week
• Three main goals each quarter

I used to overwhelm myself with long to-do lists. Now, I narrow my daily focus down to three things that truly matter. It’s a simple shift that has brought me clarity and calm.

My Personal Journey with the Rule of Three

In my own life, I've discovered that I can truly excel at only three things at any given time. During one phase, my three priorities were:

• Taking care of my mental health
• Supporting my family
• Managing home renovations

Now, my focus has shifted to:

• Prioritizing my kids and family
• Nurturing my work
• Staying healthy

I’ve found that focusing on just three key areas gives me a sense of accomplishment without the overwhelm.

Mental Health: More Than Just a "Thing"

If you’re dealing with mental health challenges, I see you. The Rule of Three becomes even more critical here. Mental health isn’t just another task—it often demands significant time and energy.

I know firsthand that it can feel like a full-time job in itself. But please, know this: it's okay if taking care of your mental well-being takes up a lot of your bandwidth. You’re not broken; you’re healing.

A Message of Compassion

I want to say this directly to you: It’s okay if managing your mental health is one of your top three priorities. That doesn’t make you less capable or less worthy. It makes you beautifully human.

Making Intentional Choices

The Rule of Three isn't about limitation—it's about liberation. It allows you to:

• Make conscious decisions
• Relieve guilt
• Stay present in the moment
• Prioritize what truly matters

Take a moment to ask yourself:

• How do I want my days to feel?
• What are my current priorities?
• What can I realistically commit to?

These questions have helped me in creating my three in every season of my life. And I know that these can help you, too.

Breaking Free from FOMO

It’s easy to get caught up in a "You Only Live Once" mindset, feeling pressured to do it all right now. But genuine living is about being present, not perpetually busy.

When you focus on your top three priorities, you let go of the fear of missing out (FOMO) and embrace what truly matters.

Your Invitation to Space

If you're struggling to identify your three key areas, I invite you to consider a coaching session with me here. Sometimes, an outside perspective can provide the clarity you need. Together, we can explore what matters most to you and create a roadmap for your unique journey.

Final Thoughts

Remember: There is time for everything you want to do. Maybe not all at once, but in time. Embrace your current season, honor the Rule of Three, and watch how your life transforms.

You are worthy of the time and space it takes to figure things out.