The Nefariousness of Vampire Loads

For many of us, overwhelm is a constant reality. Whether it's due to commitments we've made or less controllable distractions, we're in a never-ending battle with our to-do lists.

So, how can we regain control of our time? The answer seems obvious: reprioritize, unload some commitments, and take on less.

However, many of us believe that everything on our plates needs to be there, so where can we find relief?

Vampire loads.

Vampire loads are parts of your life that drain your resources - be it time, money, etc. - without your awareness. These sources of noise in your life accumulate over time.

It could be a taxing relationship, wasting money on ego-driven pursuits such as unaffordable clothes, constant bickering with a partner, or even the low energy levels symptomatic of poor nutrition.

While each one may not be the source of all your problems, their combined effect can be debilitating. So, what can you do?

1. Take a brief inventory of potential vampire loads. Identify at least one vampire load in four of these eight aspects of your life: friends, family, partner, health, career/finance, service/community, awe/adventure, and your home.
2. Decide to tackle two of the four vampire loads in the next four weeks.
3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 until you start to feel in control again.

Unless we keep vampire loads at the forefront of our minds, we'll waste much-needed resources. Make it your intention to reduce these sources of noise in your life, and you'll begin to reap the benefits of balance and reduced overwhelm.

And when in doubt…