Setting Boundaries for Focus: Let Your Values Guide Your Time

One of the simple ways I reflect on how I’ve spent my time over the past year is by scrolling back through the photos on my phone.

My observation is this: I tend to capture what matters. Things like:

• moments with people I love

• experiences that stretch me

• fun activities

• work that has purpose and meaning

As I look through those photos, I ask myself this question:

👉 Do these moments reflect my values and my purpose?

What we take photos of often reveals what truly has our attention. Likewise, what holds our attention shapes our direction.

Time Follows Values

It’s easy to say we value things like:

• family

• health

• growth

• contribution

• faith

• integrity

…but the real evidence is in how we spend our days.

If our time and our values don’t align, it creates tension.

We feel it. Others feel it too. That’s why clarity is so important.

When you’re clear on what matters most, boundaries become easier to set — because they’re not about saying no. They’re about saying yes to purpose and to what matters.

Start with a Values Check-In

Before you rush into the new year with new goals and plans, pause for a moment and get clear on your foundation.

I encourage you to complete a Values Assessment here:

👉 https://www.effectiveinfluence.com/resources

This exercise helps you name what truly matters.

Because once your values are clear…

• your decisions gain direction

• your boundaries gain strength

• and your focus becomes easier to protect

Create a Photo Vision Board

Here’s a simple tool that has really helped me.

Once you’ve identified your values:

1️⃣ Create a photo album on your phone
2️⃣ Add images that represent what matters most
3️⃣ Save it as your “Vision Board”
4️⃣ Look at it every day

These images become a visual compass:

• reminding you who you are

• guiding how you spend your time

And when new opportunities, commitments, or distractions show up, simply ask:

👉 Does this align with what matters most?

If the answer is no — that’s your boundary.

Where Focus Grows, Purpose Flows

You don’t need to do more.
You simply need to do more of what matters — and clarity makes that possible.

Your time is precious.
Choose to spend it where your heart already lives.

🔗 Explore Your Values Here
https://www.effectiveinfluence.com/resources

Reach Out, and let's take time to discover how we can progress together.

Remember daily to, 'Find value in your influence.' Your voice matters, and I'm excited to hear from and work with you!"