SUCCEED WITH STYLE: Could You Be More Efficient in 2012?
Margaret Batting, GoLocal Image Consultant and Personal Brand Strategist
SUCCEED WITH STYLE: Could You Be More Efficient in 2012?
Unfortunately, the answer is no. I think I have done well when it comes to managing my career and my nine-year-old son, along with his busy sports schedule and schoolwork. Unfortunately, when it comes to everything else, such as my house and my non-existent exercise regime, I have to admit I could do a much better job. I tend to keep everyone else focused and on goal, leaving my priorities in the dust. One of my goals for 2012 is to be more efficient with my time so I can have more balance in my life.
Following is my plan for improvement for 2012. My hope is that these tips help inspire you to do the same.
1. Admit that you can’t do it all (so very hard for me to do) and ask for help.
2. Leverage the expertise you have in your network to help you achieve your goals (or just get some simple things done like organizing your office).
3. Schedule all your maintenance appointments at once and for the year. This includes car services, doctor and dentist’s appointments for you and your family.
4. Schedule your beauty maintenance appointments at least six months in advance: haircut and color, manicure and pedicure and anything else you need to have done. That way you won’t be caught not looking your best for that important client meeting, presentation or party. Scheduling in advance is a huge stress reliever.
5. Identify your 5 most important values and make sure your goals align with them. When new opportunities arise, you can reflect on your values and determine if this is where you want to spend your time. I just started doing this and it helps keep me focused and makes it easier to say no when necessary.
6. Don’t over plan each day. (Another thing I tend to do). Select three major priorities and focus on completing them each day. This sounds easy, but most of us get sidetracked from our most important priorities and goals.
7. Schedule time each week to reflect on your accomplishments and give yourself some kudos or a small treat. It will keep you motivated long term.
8. Go on an e-mail and Facebook diet. Don’t waste your entire day responding to every email or FB message when you could be tackling other projects. Stay focused on the task at hand off-line, then carve out a specific time each day to respond to important messages.
