This week’s blog is from our Deputy Business Manager, Zaneta Nedza, on her 5 key principles to managing her time between work, busy life, and basketball! Zaneta will be representing Team GB at this year’s European Maxibasketball Championships. taking place in Pesaro, Italy from 21 – 30 June 2024. Support Zaneta on her journey to Pesaro by donating to her fundraising page! You can find out more about the sport on the GB Maxibasketball website.
The 5 key principles I use for management of my time:
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Prioritisation
Zaneta playing 3×3 Basketball
Prioritisation involves splitting my time between three key areas: family, work, and passion. For instance, I start work at 7:00am to finish earlier, giving me more time in the afternoon for other areas in my life, such as family time, preparing wholesome meals, and physical training. Weekday evenings are dedicated for both my own workouts and designated time for my daughter’s activities, leaving minimal time for social engagements due to my passion for and commitment to basketball.
2. Long-Term Planning
Given our bustling schedules, we keep a centralised family calendar where all basketball commitments and events are noted down. At the start of each academic year, my daughter and I collaboratively jot down her leisure activities, allowing me to structure my training plan. We also strategically plan vacations and essential appointments around our weekly routines.
3. Life’s Trade-Offs
In life, every action, or inaction, carries consequences. Balancing choices is a challenge, especially concerning when to exercise and when to rest. Even during designated ‘rest days’ the internal debate persists over whether to engage in additional workouts or do household chores. Mastering the art of incorporating rest into my weekly schedule remains an ongoing endeavor, one that requires discipline and adherence to ensure overall wellbeing.
4. Lifestyle
Small adjustments in our lives can lead to lasting and significant changes. As we age, we tend to seek incremental advantages that require minimal effort. For instance, adjusting my sleeping pattern by going to bed an hour earlier or refraining from eating after 7:00pm increases the likelihood of experiencing better quality sleep, consequently enhancing my overall performance.
5. Do What You Love to Do
When you do activities that resonate with your passions and values, the decisions and sacrifices required along the journey often become effortless. Pursuing what you love infuses each choice with purpose and meaning, guiding you along a path that aligns with your aspirations. The sacrifices feel more like investments in a fulfilling future, rather than burdens. As you immerse yourself in what brings you joy and fulfillment, the choices begin to feel natural and rewarding. The sacrifices transform into stepping stones, fueling your journey with determination and resilience.
Feeling inspired? Our sports hall can be hired on a pay-as-you-go basis for a game of basketball – find out more on our website!