Align Your Time with True Priorities: Meaningful Moments 2025

As we step into 2025, many of us are re-evaluating our lives, asking ourselves deeper questions about what really matters. Amid the hustle of modern life, it’s easy to lose sight of our true priorities—and even easier to let precious time slip away without realizing it. Leadership expert Stephen Covey famously said, “The key is not to prioritize what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.”  His words are a stark reminder that where we invest our time reveals what we truly value.

So, take a moment. Glance back at the past three months. Did your calendar reflect your values? Were you spending quality time with friends and family? Were you savoring the simple joys of life, like evenings by the fire pit or shared laughter over a backyard BBQ? If not, it’s time to realign your schedule with your priorities. And what better place to start than your own backyard?

The Backyard: A Space for Connection

Your backyard isn’t just a patch of land; it’s an opportunity. It’s a canvas for creating meaningful experiences, a sanctuary where you can reconnect with loved ones and rediscover the joy of the outdoors. Whether it’s hosting casual potluck dinners, playing lawn games with the kids, or simply stargazing with a warm blanket, your backyard can become the heartbeat of your home life.

But first, you need to make it a priority. Here’s how to align your time with what truly matters in 2025.

1. Audit Your Calendar and Reflect

Start by following Maxwell’s advice. Look at your calendar from the last three months and ask yourself:

• How much time did I spend with my family?
• Did I make time for meaningful conversations with friends?
• How often did I prioritize relaxation and enjoyment?

If your answers leave you feeling uneasy, don’t dwell on guilt. Instead, use this as motivation to make changes moving forward. Life is about progress, not perfection.

2. Schedule Time for What Matters Most

Once you’ve identified the gaps, the next step is to be intentional. Just as you would schedule a work meeting or a doctor’s appointment, block off time for family dinners, backyard game nights, or evenings by the fire pit. Put these moments on your calendar so they’re non-negotiable.

Incorporating these activities doesn’t require grand gestures. A simple backyard BBQ or an impromptu bonfire can become the highlight of your week. For instance, you might:

• Dedicate Friday evenings to grilling with friends.
• Reserve Sunday afternoons for outdoor games with the kids.
• Plan a monthly “screen-free” night to sit by the fire pit and share stories.

3. Create a Backyard That Invites Connection

To make your backyard a true gathering place, invest in features that encourage comfort and togetherness. Here are a few ideas:

• A Real Wood-Burning Fire Pit: Nothing brings people together like the crackle of a real fire. Unlike trendy propane alternatives, a wood-burning fire pit offers an authentic and timeless experience. The Walden Backyards Legacy Series Fire Pit Insert is perfect for creating this ambiance.
• Comfortable Seating: Ensure you have enough cozy chairs or benches to accommodate guests. Add a few durable wool blankets for chilly nights—they’re not only practical but also add a touch of rustic charm.
• Outdoor Cooking Tools: Equip your space with high-quality grilling grates and roasting sticks for marshmallows or hot dogs. Cooking over the fire is a simple way to bond and make memories.

4. Involve Your Loved Ones in the Process

Building a life centered around your priorities isn’t a solo project. Invite your family and friends to join you in shaping this vision. Ask for their input on backyard activities they’d enjoy. Perhaps your kids would love a small garden to tend or a corner for setting up a hammock.

Shared planning not only strengthens your relationships but also ensures everyone feels invested in spending time together.

5. Say No to What Doesn’t Align

In 2025, let’s embrace the power of “no.” Saying no to activities that don’t align with your priorities is one of the best ways to reclaim your time. For example:

• Skip an unnecessary meeting and use the time to read stories with your children.
• Decline a crowded social event in favor of a quiet evening in your backyard.

Every “no” creates space for a “yes” that truly matters.

6. Be Present in the Moment

Quality time isn’t just about quantity. When you’re with your loved ones, give them your full attention. Put away your phone, resist the urge to multi-task, and immerse yourself in the experience. Whether it’s a deep conversation or a lighthearted game of catch, your presence will make the moment meaningful.

7. Celebrate Small Wins

Don’t wait for holidays or special occasions to celebrate life. Find joy in the everyday. Light a fire pit on a random Tuesday, grill burgers just because, or toast marshmallows for dessert after dinner. These seemingly small moments can leave lasting impressions on you and your loved ones.

Closing Thoughts: Your Time, Your Legacy

As we navigate the year ahead, remember that aligning your time with your true priorities isn’t about adding more to your plate; it’s about subtracting what doesn’t serve you. By focusing on what matters most—like spending meaningful time with family and friends—you’re not just creating memories; you’re building a legacy.

Your backyard can be the setting for this legacy. It’s a place where relationships deepen, laughter echoes, and priorities come to life. So, take control of your calendar, align your time with your values, and make 2025 a year of intentional living. After all, the best things in life aren’t things—they’re the moments we create together.