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Busy being Busy?by Johann Stréss Hi! We’re busy being busy You think that last line’s not a showstopper? Oh, yes it is - because strenuous, misdirected effort will eventually stop your show. And they’re unstressed. If they put something off until tomorrow, it’s not because they can’t face it today – it’s because they’re in control. So, if you’re exhausted by a glimpse at the sheer length of your ‘to do’ list, here’s what you can do. (Other than say no: more on that in next month's newsletter.) Is the task really for you? Wouldn’t a different skill-set be better? Learn to delegate – but not abdicate - responsibility. Find the right person for the job, and invest in that person: time, training, resources. Choose Sam because Sam shows aptitude: don’t just choose Sam because you hate the job or don’t understand it, because that’s abdicating responsibility. And when the office burns down, don’t blame Sam if H&S training started only yesterday. After you’ve done that, focus on what you do best and only you have the skills to do.
Remember the Pareto 80:20 principle? 80% of consequences stem from 20% of causes. So in time management 80% of results stem from 20% of work. Now turn that to good effect and ensure you spend 80% of your time on the things that really matter. How? Faced with unproductive tasks that contribute to no greater good, you should check the alternatives. Above all be tough on yourself. Ask yourself - who else could do this? Does it need to be done at all? Do I play FreeCell six hours a day because it’s easy and more fun than work, or because it really is the best way ever to achieve my core objectives? Learn to let go Very hard, this one: some people never get it. Hand on heart, however, when you stop interfering and knowing best about everything, the world won’t stop turning. Just let others do their jobs and you do yours! And for more detailed advice on the art of delegation, email me, Carol McLachlan, your question at worksmartplayhard. I’m here to help! |
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Let’s be clear. Efficiency is getting things done. Effectiveness is getting things done to worthwhile effect. Don’t be fooled by self-styled ‘busy’ people whirling round like demented windmills: they’re fooling themselves. Effective people are deceptively still and calm (like lazy people, actually, so beware).
Do the things that count most
