Quit Being Busy to Achieve Retirement Goals

In our fast-paced world, distractions abound and achieving personal and financial goals can often feel like a Herculean task. It is in this context that author Yvonne Tally's latest book "Breaking Up with Busy" offers readers practical solutions for reclaiming control of their time and lives. 

Tally identifies three primary culprits that rob us of our time: technology, worry, and an inability to walk away from unproductive situations. With American adults spending over 11 hours per day interacting with media as per a 2018 Nielsen Total Audience Report, the smartphone emerges as the biggest time-bully. This six-inch companion has become omnipresent even in intimate settings such as bedrooms or bathrooms. 

Online shopping is another distraction consuming around 2.5 to 6 hours a week for nearly all Americans. Being aware of the amount of technology we consume can protect both our time and money by helping us focus on meaningful relationships instead of vacuous connections facilitated by digital platforms. 

Worry too consumes much precious time despite its futility since about 85% worries never materialize according to Robert Leahy Ph.D., author of The Worry Cure. Rather than worrying about unlikely events such as plane crashes or house fires, focusing on solutions conserves energy while effectively addressing problems at hand. 

Lastly, not knowing when to walk away from non-productive situations also wastes valuable time due to fear of missing out (FOMO). Awareness about one’s feelings coupled with mindful assessment enables sound decision-making thereby preserving both personal space and mental wellbeing. 

Tally provides four tips for taking control of your life: 

1) Think positive - An optimistic mindset boosts immune system function while reducing cortisol levels produced under stress. 

2) Make plans – A good plan takes into account big-picture aspirations along with smaller yet crucial aspects such as feelings you want associated with those achievements. 

3) Set boundaries – Clear communication helps establish healthy boundaries which protect personal space while fostering creativity and imagination. 

4) Trust your intuition – Gut feelings are often accurate indicators of the best course of action. 

As people approach retirement age, financial insecurity can trigger fear and anxiety. To combat these negative emotions, Tally advises adopting a one-step-at-a-time strategy focusing on achievable goals rather than dwelling in past failures or future uncertainties. 

Sharing fears with friends experiencing similar dilemmas can foster camaraderie and mutual support. Hiring an expert for financial advice is also beneficial provided they are thoroughly vetted to ensure trustworthiness. 

Balancing familial responsibilities such as caring for elderly parents while supporting children requires self-care first. Incorporating exercise into daily routine decreases stress levels thereby promoting mental health and wellbeing. Creating family partnerships through regular meetings encourages clear communication while distributing responsibilities evenly among members. 

Lastly, maintaining a productive to-do list enables effective time management by prioritizing tasks based on their contribution towards enriching life rather than serving as guilt-based performances or acquisitions. 

In conclusion, Yvonne Tally's insights provide valuable tools not only for reclaiming control over personal time but also for achieving meaningful success which aligns with individual values and aspirations.