The Most Important Thing

During my professional pause, I started a new habit: each morning, I try to ask, What’s the most important thing I need to do today? Not the most urgent. Not the easiest. The most important.

This mindset shift is working to break my old habit of starting the day with email or busywork feels like turning a massive ship. The mindfulness and attention it takes to break a well-worn habit is no small thing, but when I start with what matters most, the rest of my day feels lighter. I’m no longer chasing the clock or letting my energy get siphoned into things that don’t move the needle.

Some days, the “most important thing” is work-related. Other days, it’s personal, like calling a friend I’ve been meaning to check on, scheduling a health appointment, or taking a walk to clear my head. It’s not about doing everything. It’s about making sure the one thing that will make the day meaningful actually gets done.

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