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Time Management Tips - Jump-Start Projects with 2 Proven Action Steps to Build Your Productivity
Time management helps you "hit your rhythm" as you move through your day. But what happens when you start a new project? Do you stall out, unsure where to begin? Or rush in and start anywhere, creating a time-consuming aftermath to clean up? Either way, these 2 essential action steps help you maintain your productivity right from the start.
Action Step #1: Mentally plan out your physical landscape.
Spend time visualizing your ideal setting. See everything you need to maintain your focus right at your fingertips. What supplies and resource materials will you want close at hand? Jot these down in a notebook. Some necessary items to include might be:
* Several pens or sharpened pencils, depending on your preference
* A clock
* Sticky pads of different colors, shapes and sizes
* A computer
* Several blank lined tablets
* A paper calendar on which you can make notes
* Resource materials
* Green tea, water, and even aspirin.
When you create a list like this, adding to it over time, you can set up your environment quickly. Your list will reflect your preferred working style. Therefore, it will support your efficiency and effectiveness more than any other resource you can access.
Action Step #2: Prepare yourself mentally.
World-class athletes and experienced public speakers conduct a mental rehearsal. You can, too! This important step prepares you for success.
No matter what else you may be doing, make a habit of opening your imagination to brainstorm about your intended activity. Encourage yourself to creatively think about the desired outcome of your project for several days or even several weeks in advance. Through time, generate as many ideas as possible. You'll notice a framework begins to develop as your thoughts take shape.
Carry a small notebook. Make a quick note to yourself when these possibilities surface. By harvesting the best of your ideas beforehand, you begin your project enriched by several pages of thoughts, questions, images, and conclusions to build on.
By preparing your physical and mental requirements beforehand, you'll increase your productivity in 2 important ways:
First of all, you won't start out with a blank page. You will have assembled a full set of ideas to jump-start your thinking. You'll be more relaxed, more creative, and more productive as a result.
Secondly, you maintain your motivation and momentum and use your time effectively when you create a physical environment conducive to productivity in advance. No more sitting down at your desk to begin working on your project, only to realize that you need to immediately get up and get something you need!
These warm-up exercises help you save time, develop commitment to your project from the start, and maintain your focus once your work is underway. What other kinds of challenges can you succeed at as you develop new time management skills?
About the Author Coach Paula Eder, Ph.D., The Time Finder Expert, has 35 years of success helping individuals and small businesses align time with values. For free Time Templates + Time Tips, visit Finding TimeEnjoy our blog! TheTimeFinder
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