Your Health and Sanity Are Big Rocks

Steven Covey used to talk about the importance of taking care of the most important  things in our lives first.  He used the analogy of filling a jar with big rocks, pebbles, sand, and finally water.  He talked about how important the order in which you put things into the jar determined how much could fit in the jar. Most people are busy and overwhelmed these days with stuff (some important, others not so important).

The big rocks represent the most important things in our lives that give us meaning, joy, and purpose. The small pebbles, sand, and water represent the day-to-day duties, distractions, and things we spend our time on.  Covey suggests that if you first fill the jar up with sand, water, and small stones, then it will be hard if not impossible to get the big rocks in later.

Put the Big Rocks in First

However if you have your priorities straight and put the big rocks in first, then the pebbles, then the sand, then the water, you’ll be able to get a lot more in the jar.  We all lead busy complicated lives and we’ve got to decide what our big rocks, pebbles, sand, and water are.  One thing is for sure, your health is a big rock.  Put it in first.  In my life management system, I discuss 10 big rocks.   They are discussed in my ‘On Track, On Fire, and On Purpose‘ book

I’m Barbara Talley, The Poet who speaks and inspires.   To find more about me, check out my promo sheet or visit  my website.