Begin Each Day with Purpose
If you’ve done any research on known successful people, you’ll find that they all generally have at least one thing in common: a plan. It’s been proven that if you take 15 minutes before you start your day to set a plan for what you want to accomplish, you could save over an hour in unproductive time. Being intentional with your day is essential! We all have the same 24 hours as Beyonce, it’s up to us to get our self-control in check and stay on task. For some, this is easier said than done. So, what's the secret? How do some make this look so easy? And why is it not so easy for others?
I can’t answer for every person who looks like they have their life together, but I can point you in the right direction. Start simple.
For those who have recognized they are unorganized or overwhelmed, whatever you do, do not put your entire bucket list of things that need to get done in your plan for the day. Look at that bucket list and make your plan simple.
Let’s say you have 5 hours of extra time in your day to tackle your bucket list, pick three tasks from that list.
Here’s a simple guide:
Step 1. Pick Your Tasks
First, pick one task that is an absolute priority. If you could only finish one thing today, what should that one thing be? Keep in mind, this should not be a task that is a want, it should be a task that is a need. A task that will have negative consequences should it not get completed.
Next, pick one task that would be a second priority. This is a good opportunity to tackle an additional need on your list.
Lastly, your third task can be a want. If there is one item on your bucket list that would bring you joy in its accomplishment, let this task be it.
Step 2. Give Each Task a Set Time
Be realistic with the time you are setting for each task and give yourself a time buffer. If you know the task should take an hour, give yourself an hour and 15 minutes. This allows for some wiggle room for any curveballs thrown at you.
Step 3. Stay on Task
This is the last step, but it certainly is not least. It is actually the most important step! While this step seems so easy, it can often be the most difficult one. It takes habit to stay on task, and with time you’ll find it gets easier. A great way to ensure you stay on task is to carry a small note pad with you. Any side thoughts that come up, write it down. Do not stop your current task to work on those thoughts that randomly come to mind. Pause to write those thoughts down (table it) and go back to your task. Do not pick up the phone and call or text someone really quick. Do not check your e-mail really quick. Heck, do not even answer the door should someone unexpectedly knock. As you start to reap the rewards of accomplishing your tasks, your self-control will start to improve, and you’ll find it will become easier and easier to get things done.
So, that’s it? Yep! That’s it! We could get a whole lot more detailed, but I'll save that for a future article. We want to get the motivation in you going, so for now, keep it simple!
In closing, here are some additional thoughts to think about:
What do you do if you run out of time with a task?
In my opinion, move on to the next task. Do what you can in the time you have given yourself and then stop when your time is up. Move on to the second and third tasks for the day and table anything unfinished for the next day. Make the unfinished task your first priority the next day, so you don’t start to grow a new bucket list of unfinished items.
What do you do if you have extra time in your day after all tasks have been completed?
If you did not finish any of your assigned tasks for the day, go back to them and see how much further you can get. Hopefully, you can finish them in the time you have left.
If you finished all the tasks on your list, and you still have time left, you could take the time to relax and do something that is not goal focused. This might be a good idea if this time management strategy is new to you so that you don’t get burnt out.
Or, remember earlier when I suggested to "table" those random thoughts so you did not get off task with your list? Go back to your Table List and get those items done or merge your Table List with your Bucket List.
Next, if you are feeling extra motivated, look at that larger bucket list and tackle an item that is short and easily accomplished. Use the snowball effect, knock out the little ones first!
Hopefully this article will help you see the potential in starting a productive routine. Where there is a will there is always a way. The first step is getting motivated, and you’ll start to see your drive grow with time. If three tasks is too much for you in the beginning, start with just one. Like I said at the start of this article, the secret is simple- keep it simple.
