What almost burning my kitchen taught me about time and self management

How routines save your focus (and maybe your whole home)

Before we begin…please note:

This is a very personal accounting of me being very vulnerable with a mistake. It can happen to anyone, and in holiday time, it’s more imp’t than ever to keep our sh*t together.

Come tomorrow to Overachievers and we will do that. SIGN UP HERE.

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If you’ve been following me for a while, you know I’m a big advocate for theme days, for starting and ending your weeks, your days, and even your months WITH INTENTION. These small rituals bring rhythm, predictability, and focus to an entrepreneur’s life that often feels scattered or unpredictable.

But today, I want to share another reason routines matter. One that goes beyond productivity or efficiency. Sometimes, a lack of structure doesn’t just cost you time or focus – it could nearly cost you your house.

My embarrassing (and humbling) reminder

Here’s the evidence: a burnt, smoke-stained pan that sits on my counter as a not-so-gentle reminder. I almost didn’t share this story, but it’s too important not to.

Over the weekend, I went away on a solo creative retreat. It was wonderful, deeply inspiring and expansive. But when I came home, I made one small but crucial mistake: I didn’t give myself reintegration time.

Instead of easing back into my normal flow, I jumped straight into work and errands. Add to that a small neighborhood emergency (because life always throws in the unexpected), and I ended up nearly missing a scheduled zoom appointment.

Long story short: I turned off the stove (or so I thought) before my call. Half an hour later, I opened the kitchen door to find the house filled with smoke. 

Thankfully, there were no flames. 

Just a hard-learned lesson and some overcooked burger.

What this really means

When we don’t give ourselves enough time to transition between experiences, projects, or even emotional states, we become SCATTERED. 

That scattered energy affects how we show up in business, it affects our safety, our relationships, and our ability to do meaningful work. Routine is about grounding. It’s the anchor that allows us to move through our days with awareness and presence.

The power of reintegration

After a major shift in your routine, schedule time to come back to yourself. Don’t skip it. In THIS case it was even MORE important because I got some Really Big…REVOLUTIONARY thinking done (which I will share with you in the weeks to come!)

I don’t transition easy. I must reset my nervous system and my focus. That reintegration time protects not just your peace but also your performance. 

It’s what lets you keep growing without burning out. Or burning dinner. Or burning the house down. Now…I love burning (think: burning woman retreat) but not this kind!!

A preview of what’s next

On Monday, November 3rd (tomorrow!), during our session of The Overachievers Club, we’ll talk about how to marry structure and spontaneity as we head into the holidays – a season full of joy, pressure, and opportunities to level up.

If you’re ready to end the year with focus and purpose, join us. And remember: routines aren’t here to box you in. They’re here to keep you safe, clear, and ready for what’s next.

Until then, don’t burn your house down.

P.S. If you’ve ever wondered what your life could look like on the other side of fear, watch this.

So…without sounding like an alarmist…the holidays are coming! Celebrate the season and push past your comfort zone. Not an Overachiever’s Club member yet? 

Join for free, and start seeing big results. Sign Up now!