Four steps to make your day dynamic!There are two ways to start your day. The first is to dive in; tackling whatever is in front of you. You might check your emails. This is an interesting beginning as it is always possible something fun and new came in since you last looked.
Next thing you know you are deeply involved, answering all your mail. Some messages require thought; others require action, either research, interaction with others, or decision making. It is natural to attempt to take care of these mails, as they are right in front of you. You feel hungry, look up and it is mid morning. You have just spent a quarter of your day dealing with emails!
Another scenario is firefighting. Firefighting is
act of facing and finding quick fix solutions for all emergency situations that seem to be coming at you from unknown sources. These urgent problems can also eat up an alarming amount of your work day.
Let's look at an alternative method of beginning your day. First, remember that this day is a gift. You have choice what to do with it. Why not choose to do important -but-not urgent tasks first? These are tasks that will advance your life goals, and ensure success for you as you have defined it. If you do not prioritize and do these tasks first, you will almost certainly fail to do them.* Here is how.
1. Define where you want to be in 3-5 years. Now list steps it will take to get you there. Break these steps down into yearly goals, then monthly and finally weekly. Take time to plan your life!
2. At beginning of your day, pull out your weekly goals. What will you do today to advance your weekly goal? List this (these) tasks.
3. Scan your emails - don't read them! You will get bogged down! Also, scan your phone messages, faxes inbox and anywhere else you receive communication. The goal is to get an idea of what new items will require your attention today.
