Planning

Better planning means avoiding pitfalls that jeopardize our intentions.  Like last week’s article “Broadening the Scope” (click here to catch up), the idea of Leaving Space means giving ourselves room to maneuver and adapt as life comes at us.  Here are some things to consider:

1. How "responsive" is your role?  Consider how often interruptions, client communications, personnel interactions or even family commitments come up as a normal part of your day.  When these are a part of your role it'…

A plan for your time should be dynamic.  Think beyond the boundaries of a list of “stuff” to do.  As my earlier posts in this series (Broaden Your Scope and Leave Space), taking into consideration when as well as how to do various tasks can boost your productivity significantly.  If you haven’t really considered your workstyle, preferences, energy and natural rhythm of working you may not be capitalizing on the best way to harness your best energy.  Consider the following:

• When do you focus…

We’ve all been there - - that lingering item that needs to be done but we just can’t seem to make ourselves do it.  Sometimes it’s that the task is large or difficult.  Other times it’s something that’s new and we’re not quite sure how to proceed.  Or, it could be that we are waiting for ALL the information needed to get started.  Whatever the case may be, we can move toward combatting procrastination when we look beyond the task and start to tackle the first real hurdle - - just BEGINNING.  Try…

The holiday lights are starting to appear and preparations are underway.  As much as I enjoy the holidays I also anticipate them with a bit of dread as I know that time seems to come at a premium this time of year.  So, in anticipation of what can be a runaway train in terms of time, I thought I'd highlight a few ways to impact your time this season.  While you actually can't MAKE time, you can certainly craft the way you spend your time so it's meaningful and fulfilling.

• Start Early!  Unless…

Many of us have spent these first weeks in January considering goals and projects we intend to accomplish in the coming year.  There is often a lot of momentum and excitement to see those plans to fruition.  In addition to identifying those goals and determining what steps you need to make them happen, there is another question that can prove beneficial - What speed bumps might you encounter along the way?  You know, those annoying spots in the road that slow down your progress and keep you from…

Many of us are, or will be, impacted by schedule disruptions related to COVID-19.  Cancellations and the move toward "social distancing" means we will likely be spending much more time at home in the coming days.  With this change in normal routine, it's easy to feel lost and fearful amidst the chaos. 

To combat the negativity and to help us state in a mindset that is positive and productive, I've compiled some ideas on productive ways you can utilize this time.  Try some of these in the coming…