Goal-setting has been the theme in recent weeks in this newsletter, as well as the Expert Series Call. Download a recording of the call here, if you did not register to attend. Now that you have set your goals, how do you set yourself up for success in reaching those goals?
One of the steps we discussed was creating an action plan. This is a challenging step if you have not taken the first four steps in goal-setting. But let’s assume you have completed all of the seven steps. We all know that is still not enough. The human element plays a big factor in our success. So how can we maximize our capabilities and minimize our sometimes frustrating humanness?
An article I shared with you referenced systems versus goals as the key to success. I don’t disagree, although I call them habits rather than systems. Here is how habits can support the attainment of your goals:
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Have a routine. Sounds boring, eh? If you want to make steady progress in the direction of your goals, establish routines. Have a morning routine. The one that gets you out of bed and on your way with minimal distractions.
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First things first. Get your must-do out of the way first thing. If you need help understanding this, read or listen to Stephen Covey’s book “First Things First.” Here’s my review of the book.
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Plan your days. Schedule as many similar things as possible into the same day such as client meetings or marketing. Have set days of the week that you meet with clients. You are prepared to go from one meeting to the next and you have minimized any administrative duties.
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Block your time. Expanding on #3, make an appointment on your calendar to do the things that need to get done – for client meetings, for admin, for marketing. This will minimize interruptions and prevent overscheduling.
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Minimize distractions. Would you take an unscheduled phone call during a client meeting? Why take an unscheduled call during your meeting prep time? Put your phone on do not disturb and turn off your email software.
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Leave blocks of unscheduled time. Not everything will fall into your neatly scheduled time blocks and catch-all blocks of time allow you to be responsive (note, not reactive) to unexpected events.
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Schedule more time than is needed – to do the task or get to the meeting. Time compression is one of the greatest stressors and it is most so when we are running late or have too much on our plate. Following the tips above gives a reality check of just how much time it takes to work effectively, without the overhang of “too much to do” sapping our productivity.
The specificity of your routine and habits will differ, yet these basics serve all of us well. What routine or habits have been key to your success? Share with me here…I’d love to know how you have set yourself up for success!