In this month’s coaching blog, Kimberlyn Palchak reminds us of the importance of spending time in self-care when the to-do lists pile up and distract us from our true intent.
KIMBERLYN PALCHAK
Royal Oak: First UMC
“Do not be conformed to this age, but be transformed by the renewing of the mind” (Romans 12:2a, NSRVUE).
To-do lists are a big deal. Ask anyone on planet Earth, and they will tell you that without the list, they are not prepared for the day, or sometimes even life.
However, simply going about each day with a list of things to do without some time for yourself seems like a slippery slope. If we spend time in pursuits that renew and strengthen our minds and bring peace, we are better prepared for the next thing on the list, and we might even enjoy the experience of getting there.
Many people are beginning to realize that setting a daily intention to practice self-care makes them better able to tackle their to-do list, even if it’s just a short practice.
A client of mine couldn’t feel like he was thriving and succeeding unless others could see what he had accomplished. He took great pride in the crossed-off to-do list on his desk, which everyone could see. It was only when he decided to change course, to enjoy getting where he was headed, that he truly felt skilled and proficient. And he did it all by mindfully breathing and visualizing what the end would look like.
In each of us resides this incredible ability to be ourselves and to feel accomplished. If we are willing to fully immerse ourselves in spending time in self-care, we will be able to allow the to-do list to peacefully coexist with the experiences of completing it.
Each of us will choose different ways to renew our minds and experience our journey, but rest assured, all paths will lead to being the true you.
The Michigan Conference has created a culture of coaching and offers the gift of coaching to leaders who are anticipating or experiencing a ministry transition. This gift of 12 coaching sessions is free for laypersons, staff, and pastors. No strings attached.
To request a Michigan Conference coach, complete this online request form. Naomi García, lead coach and Michigan Conference staff member, will get back to you. To ask questions, email Naomi at [email protected].
The Michigan Conference is also offering a limited number of complimentary registrations for coach training this fall to those interested in developing coaching skills in any capacity. Courses begin in September. Read this article to learn more and register. Interested individuals are encouraged to sign up early, as the limited spaces will fill quickly.
Kimberlyn Palchak is a writer, addiction medicine specialist, and licensed social worker who became a health coach after leaving the addiction field. She has been coaching for over ten years and is now a Michigan Conference coach.
Last Updated on September 3, 2025