Practical Steps to Prioritize What Matters

Tina Valen
Jul 19
5 min read

We’re bombarded every day — by pings, alerts, reminders, pressure, and people pulling us in every direction. It’s no wonder we feel overwhelmed trying to stay focused on what really matters. Sound familiar?

Here's what I am learning as I go: when you learn to prioritize with purpose, everything shifts. You feel more grounded, more in control, and able to create a life that feels like yours again.

This guide isn’t about doing more. It’s about doing what matters most — with intention, clarity, and energy.

Let’s dive into simple, powerful steps that will help you reclaim your focus, protect your peace, and start moving in the direction of the life you’re meant to live.

A warm, sunlit workspace featuring an inspiring journal entry about releasing negativity and embracing positive action with practical steps. A mug of coffee, a crystal, and a reminder note for a VIP call enhance the scene, evoking a sense of intentional living and self-care.

Practical Steps to Identify Priorities

Before you can protect your energy, you have to know where it’s leaking. Start by taking a step back to evaluate your current commitments.

Make a list of everything you're involved in, from work projects to personal hobbies. Once you have a comprehensive list, categorize these tasks by urgency and importance.

Then ask:

✨ Which of these are actually aligned with who I want to be?

Use the Eisenhower Matrix: This tool helps distinguish between what is urgent and important. Tasks in the "urgent and important" quadrant should be your immediate focus.

Set Clear Goals: Clearly defined goals provide direction. Use the SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) to create goals that guide your actions. For example, instead of saying "I want to be healthier," set a goal like "I will exercise for 30 minutes, 5 times a week."

Close-up view of a planner showcasing organized tasks — A well-organized planner showing tasks and goals.

Prioritize Daily: Each day, choose three tasks that are essential to complete. Focusing on just a few key items helps prevent feeling overwhelmed and increases your chance of finishing what you set out to do.

Ready to spot your energy leaks? Grab your Work-Life Balance Checklist to start prioritizing with ease.

Building Healthy Boundaries

Once you've identified your priorities, the next step involves protecting them through healthy boundaries. Boundaries help ensure that your time and energy are spent in ways that reflect your priorities.

Learn to Say No: It's important to recognize your limits. If a request does not align with your priorities, don’t hesitate to decline. You’ll free up time for the things that really matter to you.
Limit Distractions: Identify your major distractions, whether they are social media, unnecessary meetings, or excessive television. Set specific times for these activities or eliminate them altogether during work hours.
Communicate Your Boundaries: Let those around you know what your boundaries are, be it friends, family, or colleagues. Keeping everyone informed minimizes misunderstandings and helps others respect your time.

Struggling to say no? Empowered VIP Members get my Boundary Blueprint Framework + monthly accountability.

High angle view of an organized workspace with minimal distractions — A tidy workspace featuring minimal distractions for better focus.

Why am I struggling with work-life balance?

Because modern life wasn’t designed for balance — it was built for burnout.So if you’re feeling overwhelmed, it’s not because you’re failing — it’s because the system is.

But that’s where conscious clarity comes in.

Statistics show that around 80% of workers experience stress related to their jobs, which severely impacts their personal lives. Identifying ways to mitigate this stress can greatly assist in achieving a healthier balance.

Assess Your Workload: Is your workload manageable? If you're consistently overwhelmed, it may be time to discuss your responsibilities with your supervisor or reconsider your commitments.
Recognize Your Values: What matters most to you? Take time to reflect on your values and ensure your actions align with them. This can provide clarity and focus, needed for making everyday decisions.
Seek Support: You don’t have to do this alone. Support is strength, not weakness. Don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it. Whether it’s a coach, a best friend, or a weekly reading — external clarity helps internal peace.

Implementing Mindfulness Practices

Mindfulness can serve as a powerful tool when it comes to prioritizing what matters. Engaging in mindfulness practices allows you to stay present, make thoughtful decisions, and enhance your overall well-being.

Meditation: Regular meditation can help improve focus and reduce stress. Starting with just five minutes a day can make a significant difference. No incense needed. Just close your eyes. Breathe.
Journaling: Spend a few minutes each day reflecting on your thoughts, feelings, and priorities. This practice can help clarify what truly matters to you and allow for more intentional living.
Mindful Breaks: You don't need an hour... you need presence. Incorporate short breaks into your daily routine. Use these moments to step outside for fresh air, stretch, or engage in a short breathing exercise. It can refresh your focus and boost productivity.

Pair journaling with my Tarot Alignment Checklist for deeper self-awareness → Shop

Eye-level view of a tranquil meditation space filled with natural light — A calming meditation space designed for mindfulness practices.

Taking Action Towards Your Priorities

After establishing your priorities, boundaries, and mindfulness practices, it's time to take action. Implementation is crucial for making a real difference in your life.

Create an Action Plan: Break down your goals into actionable steps with deadlines. Having a roadmap can keep you accountable and allow you to track your progress.
Review and Adjust: Life shifts. So should your priorities. Use a tracker, journal, or tarot pull to check in and realign each week.
Celebrate Achievements: Progress is progress. Recognize your accomplishments, no matter how small. Celebrating progress reinforces positive behavior and keeps you motivated.

Keeping Momentum

Staying aligned isn’t about perfection — it’s about returning again and again to what matters most. Here are ways to maintain momentum and ensure you continue to prioritize effectively.

Regular Reflection: Schedule time each week to reflect on your achievements and reassess your priorities. Self-reflection fosters growth and keeps you aligned with your goals.
Accountability Partners: Share your goals with someone who can hold you accountable. This could be a friend, partner, or coach who checks in on your progress and offers support. And, this is why I created the Ashana Empowered VIP Circle — a private hub where growth feels supported and sacred.

Having someone to check in with changes everything.
Utilize Resources: Many tools and resources can assist in your journey. Apps for goal-setting, time management, or even motivational podcasts can provide insights and encouragement.

Want help tracking it all? Use the Work-Life Balance Checklist to prioritize with ease.Pair it with your reading notes or coaching calls for powerful integration.

So my friend, prioritizing what matters requires intentional effort, clear boundaries, and mindfulness. By implementing these practical steps, you can gain greater control over your life and work towards improving your overall quality of life. Remember that it is a journey, and every small step counts towards significant change. Embrace the process, stay committed, and don't forget to celebrate your victories along the way!