One of the main reasons we feel stress with a busy schedule is we allow ourselves to be the victim of time and responsibilities. We need to figure out how to run our schedule, not to let it run us.

The first step in taking control of our schedule is to actively create our schedule. Rather than saying "I have to...", try changing your wording to "I choose to...". Simply changing how you phrase this can move the power from the schedule to you. When you feel you "have to" do something, you are a victim to the responsibility. When you choose to take action, you are in the driver's seat and that anger or stress is removed through consciously choosing how you spend your day.

Being conscious about your time is more than just word choice or taking responsibility for what you're choosing to do, but it's also choosing to do and not to do certain things. Take a look at everything on your to-do list and really consider if you are consciously wanting and choosing something - or does it feel like an obligation. Once you pull unnecessary obligations off your schedule, take a look at what's left. Look for items you feel responsible to complete, but may not be the best use of your time and resources. What are the things you truly want and need to do? What responsibilities can easily be taken care of by someone else? After evaluating your schedule for the week, embrace what's left as the things you actively and consciously choose to do. Notice if you feel you have more time and less stress throughout each day.