Timely Tips: Reduce Time Clutter – Prioritize Using 3 Top Tips
By: Paula Eder (see my bio)
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To bring new strength to daily decision-making, focused priorities clear the path! Here are 3 tips to keep in mind:
TIP #1: Compare Consequences in 3 days, 3 weeks and 3 years.
If you have difficulty prioritizing between 2 competing activities, try looking down the road. What will be the consequence of choosing one option over the other in 3 days? In 3 weeks? In 3 years?
Comparing consequences over multiple time spans provides you with a more balanced understanding of the life you are creating for yourself. What seems pressing right now may recede in importance, once other long-range needs are considered. This helps clarify your best choice for now.
TIP #2: Balance a narrow focus with a wide overview.
How to balance multiple responsibilities? Practice flexible focus. Think of a shepherd, retrieving the wandering lamb without losing sight of the flock. You, too, can alternate close-range focus with
broad peripheral vision (aided by your calendar and favorite reminder services).
Before you begin working on your top priority of the moment, conduct a careful, long-range overview of your commitment. That will either reinforce your current decision or encourage you to make changes that will enhance your flow. This way, no important decision falls through the cracks. Yet you bring yourself back to fully occupy the moment.
TIP #3: Chart the flow of multiple projects on your calendar.
What tasks recur periodically? How much time does each require? The evolving pattern of emerging and receding demands is the dance of your priorities.
- Note on your calendar when each project must claim precedence, and for how long.
- Make liberal use of soft deadlines, as we discussed in the last E-Zine.
- Use color-coding to conduct quick scans and avoid logjams.
The more you befriend your calendar, the more it helps you. And remember to schedule in time to recharge your batteries, so that your calendar supports your overall well-being.
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Paula Eder, PhD is an internationally-known coach and published author who specializes in mentoring heart-based entrepreneurs and small business owners, from the inside out, to align their core values and energy with their time choices and behaviors so that they make more money, create more freedom, and find more time. To learn more about Paula’s unique, Heart-Based Time Management™ System and begin your transformational journey, sign up for her Finding Time Success Kit. Discover how you can find time for what matters most. |
