Productivity Tips
From the Brain Insights shared by David Rock in his book Quiet Leadership, we know that no two brains are alike and the process I am about to share with you might or might not work for you.
A to-do list or task list is as common as the creation of a shopping list. We all have different ways of creating these lists whether it be old-school pen and paper or the use of modern technology applications like Outlook Tasks or Wunderlist, etc.
A few years ago while working as a strategic account manager I was introduced to a highly effective service delivery manager and the way she did her to-do list always stuck with me. Each day using an A5 notepad with tear-off pages she wrote the list of items she needed to focus on for the day. At the end of the day, she created a new list by reviewing which items had been completed, needed to be carried over, or added to a new list. This was a daily practice that she completed using no technology to aid her.
So a few years later after having given this a try before and not diligently sticking to the practice I gave this a try and as always took it one step further. At a networking event, I was introduced to Alison who owns a dairy business and she and her brother had designed a multi-planner. At first glance, my response was awesome, not predated, beautiful color and textured cover so were even great on the touch. The downside was the size. It just wasn’t gonna fit into my notebook bag and it would weigh-down my handbag. So a stay-at-home diary it became.
I started using the multi-planner on a Sunday and wrote down all the planned tasks and activities (yes cycling included) for the Monday. At the end of Monday, I would reflect on which items were completed and which items needed to be carried over. Often I found that items didn’t need to be carried over to Tuesday if incomplete, but could be taken care of later in the week. The step I took further was to look at what was completed over and above the list, as this way, I could see how my time was being utilized. It is a great way to reflect on what is actually consuming your time or where you choose to focus. We are well aware that each day can not be fully planned in advance.
I would continue this practice each week only focusing on a day at a time and never a few days or a week in advance. When I did focus on the entire week I felt I often became overwhelmed or even anxious about tasks in the future. I have also come to realize that personal goal planning for 3 months only is best suited to my needs.
The Results Coaching methodology has a great process on how to set goals, milestones, and actions and track progress without leaving you feeling overwhelmed. Why not book a free no-obligation coaching session to learn more?