System Saturday – Episode 44: Your Future Self Will Thank You

Introduction

Hello, and welcome to System Saturday, episode 44.

Sometimes, the things we do today can have a huge impact on how the next day goes.

Today, I want to talk about something that has made a huge difference for me recently: setting my future self up for success.

My Story

Applying for a job, for me, is a whole production.

There are so many things you're supposed to do, things you're not supposed to do, and then you have to tailor everything toward the specific position.

I used to be a teacher, and now I'm working toward my master's in social work. So I was also trying to figure out how my previous experience translated into this new field and how to communicate that on my resume and applications.

It just felt like a lot.

At the same time, I had been reorganizing my office, working on paperwork, and juggling several different projects. Before I knew it, there were papers and supplies spread all over my desk.

And when something already feels overwhelming, walking into an office and seeing everything sitting on the desk just adds one more obstacle before you can even begin.

What I Learned About Myself

One thing I know about myself is that when my surfaces are clear and my space is organized, I can breathe.

I feel calmer.

There's more peace.

And I can focus so much better.

So one evening, especially with school right around the corner, I decided I was going to start clearing my desk every night before I went to bed.

I've been doing that every evening this week.

The cleanup usually takes five minutes or less, but the feeling I have the next morning is priceless.

When I walk into my office now, my desk is clear, everything looks nice, and I can simply sit down and begin.

I don't have to clear yesterday away before I can start today.

It Doesn't Stop at My Desk

I've realized I do the same thing in other areas of my life.

If I know I'm doing deliveries the next morning, especially if I might sleep in a little later, I get everything ready the night before.

I fill my water bottle.

I gather everything I need.

I make sure it's all ready to go.

Then, when morning comes, I don't have to rush around trying to remember everything.

I simply grab what I need and head out the door.

The Takeaway

That's really what a system can look like.

Sometimes we think systems have to be complicated.

We imagine color-coded planners, elaborate routines, or spending hours getting organized.

But sometimes, a system is simply doing one small thing today that makes tomorrow easier.

Maybe that's clearing your desk.

Maybe it's laying out tomorrow's clothes.

Maybe it's filling your water bottle.

Maybe it's putting your keys, wallet, and bag by the door.

Maybe it's packing tomorrow's lunch.

It doesn't have to take much time.

Sometimes, just five minutes can completely change how tomorrow begins.

Reflection Question

So, as you go through your day today, I want you to think about this:

What could you do today that your future self would be thankful for?

Closing

Thank you for spending a little bit of your day with me.

Until next time, I will see you for Sanctuary Sunday.

Until then, I hope today's episode helped you create a little more clarity, feel a little more calm, and have a little more confidence. 💜💚