If asked, few would label themselves as irreplaceable, but examining their actions may tell a different story. Many of us are socialized to be self-sufficient and independent. For some, this devolves into an unhealthy illusion of control and a life less lived. If all of our time is spent trying to be superheroes, we will be depleted of the energy needed to live the life that we are so desperately trying to create. If we do not manage time, time will begin to manage us.

Look at your daily activities. How much of what you do is imperative to your life? How many of these activities must be performed by you? Time, for many of us, has a value. If you can find others to pick up some of the items off of your task list, perhaps you can create a better quality of life for both you and those who assist you. If cleaning your home takes a considerable amount of time, for example, and it is not an activity that you enjoy, consider hiring a housekeeper. If you hate lawn work, consider hiring a teen from the neighborhood to complete the work. If you look, you can find people who enjoy doing almost everything that you despise. You may be releasing something that drains you and, by doing so, feed another (figuratively and literally). Before you conclude that these luxuries are too expensive, what is the value of your time? Even if you do not have the funds right now, looking at the costs of such services will allow you to create new objectives for your future.

Success or sabotage? Too often our success is diffused by our martyrdom; we want to be all things because at some level we believe that success must be directly linked with burden and exhaustion. Check your assumption!

Is this going to be an incredible day? Create a plan to fill your day with the luxuries of self-interest. Notice how much you are then able to give to others.