Getting back into your work rhythm after a weekend can be a challenge. Here’s a simple framework for planning your workweek so you can dive back into your most important work:

• “Unless the LORD builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain”  (Psalm 127:1).
• “Commit your work to the LORD, and your plans will be established”  (Proverbs 16:3).

Here are three steps toward productivity: 

1. Review your mission and values.

• Am I still aiming for these long-term goals? Do I need to update?
• Does this work align with my values? Does it move toward my mission and goals?

2. Define your priorities for the week.

• What do I need to do this week? What would I like to do?
• What should I do this week to fulfill each of my roles?
• What should I do this week to move towards my goals?
• What should I do this week for each of my major projects?
• What should I do this week from my action list?
• What is on my calendar this week?
• How could I help people in need, fight injustice, or promote my family’s/church’s/community’s good?

3. Organize your priorities in a way that makes them easy to do.

• Which of these items are small? Which will take more time or investment?
• Is this list doable within one week? If not, what should I eliminate or delay? What is most crucial?
• Which of these items need to be scheduled? When should they be done?
• Which of these small actions can I accomplish right now?

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