Rules of Engagement for Competing Requests

Falling off a goal is normal. Knowing how to get back on track—without shame or drama—is the real skill. I’m hosting a free 60-minute live workshop on Tuesday, January 27 at 7pm ET to teach a simple framework for getting unstuck. Register now for Falling Off is Part of It: The Framework for Getting Back on Track (Without the Drama)!

In this episode, Chris Guillebeau explores time anxiety and the illusion of urgency that is st. aling your joy. He explains the pervasive feeling of never having enough time, discusses the psychological roots of time anxiety, and shares practical strategies for managing competing demands, avoidance, and procrastination. Chris also offers insights on creating personal “rules of engagement,” decluttering schedules, and embracing acceptance, encouraging listeners to cultivate a more intentional, compassionate, and fulfilling relationship with time.

Exciting News!!! Coming in March, 2026, my new book, How a Little Becomes a Lot: The Art of Small Changes for a More Meaningful Life is now available for pre-orders!

Key Takeaways:

• Definition and exploration of time anxiety as a psychological issue.
• The distinction between feeling overwhelmed and traditional productivity challenges.
• The impact of competing priorities and requests on time management.
• The concept of “rules of engagement” for managing daily demands.
• Strategies for overcoming avoidance and procrastination.
• The importance of self-awareness and intentionality in managing time.
• Practical tips for improving time management, such as allowing buffer time for tasks.
• The idea of “time decluttering” to create space in schedules.
• The role of cognitive distortions in exacerbating time-related stress.
• Encouragement to embrace a mindset shift towards a more fulfilling relationship with time.

For full show notes: https://www.oneyoufeed.net/time-anxiety/https://www.oneyoufeed.net/time-anxiety/!

If you enjoyed this episode with Chris Guillebeau, check out:

Chris Guillebeau (Interview from 2014)

How to Accept Limitations and Make Time for What Counts with Oliver Burkeman

Time Management for Mortals with Oliver Burkeman

Oliver Burkeman on Modern Time Management (2019)

By purchasing products and/or services from our sponsors, you are helping to support The One You Feed and we greatly appreciate it. Thank you!

This episode is sponsored by:

David Protein bars deliver up to 28g of protein for just 150 calories—without sacrificing taste! For a limited time, our listeners can receive this special deal: buy 4 cartons and get the 5th free when you go to www.davidprotein.com/FEED

Aura Frames: For a limited time, save on the perfect gift by visiting AuraFrames.com /FEED to get $35 off Aura’s best-selling Carver Mat frames – named #1 by Wirecutter –  by using promo code FEED at checkout. This deal is exclusive to listeners, and frames sell out fast,  so order yours now to get it in time for the holidays!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices