We all know the story of the tortoise and the hare and how both animals arrive at the same destination in spite of travelling at different speeds. So the question is, do you know how you work best in order to maximise your productivity?
Just because you work in a certain way and always have done, doesn’t necessarily mean it is the best way for you, your work/life balance, your sanity and getting the results you desire!
So examine what is working for you and what isn’t and use some of these tips to help you on your way.
If you are not sure how you work best, take yourself back to your studying days and identify patterns of behaviour that did/didn’t work for you. Did you work on assignments/homework well in advance of the deadline date or at the very last minute? Either of these patterns are fine as long as they worked for you and you got the results you desired. But if they didn’t work and you are running your business this way, examine what changes you can make so you have a more realistic way of getting things done.
As a business owner, you should be in charge–why else do you work for yourself?! If you feel under pressure to attend early morning networking events but don’t function at your best first thing, don’t go! Choose an event more suited to your body clock. Identify the times of the day you achieve your most productive work and schedule your most important tasks for those times.
Does procrastination distract you from getting things done? Be firm with yourself and try to tackle those difficult, most unpleasant tasks first. Everything else will seem easier by comparison.
Do you know where you work best? A client of mine wasn’t getting work done because she couldn’t bear to sit in her untidy office. Once she had de-cluttered, she was proud of her new working space and achieved so much more.
Don’t be too hard on yourself and quit when things aren’t working-why be a slave to your boss? (ie you!). Plan when you can have another go. It’s all about being disciplined but also flexible.
As a regular slimming club member, I am reminded of what my club leader said recently. ‘Although you all have the same goal, she said, ”you are all unique individuals. Some of you will be happier taking the slower, more scenic route and take longer to reach your desired weight, whilst others will prefer to stick to a faster, more direct route. Either way is fine as long as it works for you!’