In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we often find ourselves juggling countless tasks, commitments, and responsibilities. Whether it’s managing work projects, attending to family needs, nurturing relationships, or pursuing personal passions, the art of juggling priorities can sometimes feel like walking a tightrope without a safety net. However, what if I told you that not all priorities are created equal? What if there was a way to distinguish between the crucial “glass” balls and the less critical “plastic” ones? Let’s delve into this metaphor and explore how it can revolutionize the way we approach our daily lives. I recently talked about this during my breakout session at Empower. 

Glass vs. Plastic: Understanding the Metaphor

Imagine you’re juggling a mix of glass and plastic balls. The glass balls represent the priorities in your life that carry significant consequences if dropped – think crucial work deadlines, important family commitments, or maintaining cherished relationships. On the other hand, the plastic balls symbolize tasks that, while still important, won’t shatter if they slip through your fingers – perhaps it’s that extra social event, a non-urgent work assignment, or minor household chores.

The Wisdom of Nora Roberts

I came across this tweet about renowned author Nora Roberts, who once shared a profound insight into the art of juggling priorities. She likened it to knowing which balls are glass and which are plastic. Dropping a glass ball can have far-reaching consequences, while a plastic ball simply bounces back. This analogy encourages us to prioritize catching the glass balls – the critical aspects of our lives that demand our attention and care.

Prioritizing Relationships and Consequences

At the heart of this metaphor lies the importance of relationships and consequences. When determining whether a ball is glass or plastic, consider its impact on your relationships and the consequences of dropping it. Is it something that will significantly affect your loved ones or your long-term goals? Will it damage your reputation or livelihood? By evaluating these factors, you can make informed decisions about where to invest your time and energy.

Making Intentional Choices

Juggling priorities isn’t about trying to keep every ball in the air simultaneously. It’s about making intentional choices and recognizing that some balls may need to be dropped – temporarily or permanently – to focus on what truly matters. This might mean saying no to certain commitments, delegating tasks, or reevaluating your goals and aspirations. Remember, every “no” can be a “not now,” and it’s okay to revisit priorities as circumstances change.

Letting Go of Obligations

As you navigate the juggling act of life, don’t forget to reassess your commitments regularly. Are there any balls you’re juggling out of habit or obligation? It’s essential to recognize when certain priorities no longer serve you and have the courage to let them go. Whether it’s volunteer roles, toxic relationships, or outdated hobbies, dropping these plastic balls creates space for new opportunities and personal growth.

Embracing the Glass Balls

Ultimately, the key to mastering the art of juggling priorities lies in focusing on the glass balls – the aspects of your life that truly matter. By prioritizing relationships, acknowledging consequences, and making intentional choices, you can navigate the complexities of modern life with clarity and purpose. So, the next time you find yourself juggling an array of tasks and commitments, remember to identify the glass balls and give them the attention they deserve. After all, it’s not about keeping every ball in the air; it’s about catching the ones that truly count.

Unlock your potential with our free Priorities Worksheet designed to empower you in distinguishing between plastic and glass balls. Grab your copy today and take control of your priorities!