Wisconsin Lawyer
Vol. 82, No. 4, April 2009
Most of us have learned the traditional method of time management, in which all items on our to-do lists get prioritized as high, medium, or low, and we are instructed to attack the top of the list with gusto. While this approach looks good on paper, it doesn’t take into account one critical component of the human condition: We never do anything we don’t truly want to do. If we continually force ourselves to work when we don’t want to, we either collapse from fatigue or chuck the whole process.
Maybe a different approach is in order. Here are some ways you can do more with your hours while maintaining a sense of balance and happiness:
Get the juices flowing. You will always be more productive if you move your body first. Start each day with some form of movement. By bringing some much-needed oxygen to your cells, you’ll find that you will stay healthier, think more clearly, and have significantly more energy throughout the day.
Honor your internal clock. Our productivity levels can dramatically shift depending on the hour of the day. Schedule your most challenging tasks for the hours when you have the most energy. Save those activities that aren’t as mentally or physically challenging for when your energy level dips.
Do the fun things first. Start your workday with the most joyful task, to set a pleasant tone for the rest of the day. When we experience pleasure, our brain automatically secretes a burst of serotonin. Use that serotonin buzz to your advantage as you address subsequent items you dread.
Theresa Rose is an inspirational speaker, radio host, and award-winning author. As the founder of Serious Mojo Publications, she uses fresh approaches to energy management, productivity, and creative development. Visit her online at www.TheresaRose.net.
Reframe the uglies. There will always be odious things we have to perform at our jobs. Instead of complaining or devising tactics to avoid them, try viewing them through a different lens. All of those ugly tasks can be seen as important and necessary elements to the employment you’ve chosen.
Slow down. We often cause errors or omissions when we operate at a
fever pitch for an extended time. Instead of rushing through the day, try to spend a few more moments with each task to make sure it is properly completed. You’ll save time by avoiding mistakes and will enjoy the process more.
Choose healthy distractions. There will be times when you just want to goof off, which is a natural response to an intense work environment. Go get a nutritious snack, take a 15-minute walk, or step outside for a breath of fresh air. Getting away from your desk to clear your head can improve your productivity and provide clarity on issues you’re struggling with.
Celebrate victories. The next time you finish an assignment, take a few moments to reflect on your efforts and acknowledge your skill and determination. This will give you the fuel you need to tackle the next initiative.
Recognize and accept that there will never be a moment when you get everything done; there will always be undone items on the to-do list. Instead of perceiving your job as a constant battle between tasks and limited time, look at each new day as another opportunity to accomplish great things in a joyful manner.
Each of us wants to enjoy ourselves both personally and professionally, not work ourselves into an early grave. If you’re fixated on the elusive destination instead of enjoying the journey of your life, then maybe it is time to stop managing your time so rigidly and start managing your joy. Happiness is a state of being we can choose, whether our high-priority items ever get done or not.
Wisconsin Lawyer
