How to Finally Feel Like You’re Doing Enough

One of the great equalizers among humans (besides the fact that we’re all human!) is that we all have 168 hours each week: from the CEO to the receptionist to the computer programmer to the case manager.

I’ve noticed one key difference between those who feel successful AND less stressed and those who are running around like a chicken with their head cut off trying to get EVERYTHING done. It comes down to one top-notch skill:

FOCUS.

Y’all know I love a good f-word. This is one that can free you from so much anxiety.

When we’re stressed it is often our ego telling us that we need to do more to please others. We need to do more so that we’re important. We need to do more because if we do more we’ll show that we’re needed.

Ultimately our work suffers because of it. A lack of focus leads to shoddy work, missed deadlines, “forgotten” tasks, poor communication, etc. I’ve also heard people say they feel like they have early onset dementia because their short-term memory is so bad.

Your job isn’t to do it all. Instead, your job is ALWAYS to do the right work that matters. Instead of trying to do it all, have it all, be it all, you can have focus and manage your productivity, not just your time.

Productivity + Impact ≠
Time Management + Checklists

Time management is just one aspect of productivity. Productivity combines these seven elements that leads to you having impact through your work:

1. Impactful work: you’re doing work that is meaningful to you.
2. Focus: your mental and physical focus is on one thing at time and you manage your calendar and physical space to make that happen.
3. Presence: you are self aware and in the moment.
4. Time management: you’re realistic with your time and create flexibility in your day for the unexpected (or the shizz happens time).
5. Energy management: you tackle the work that requires the most thought and creativity in the morning. You also take small breaks, drink plenty of water, and eat well throughout the day so you don’t create the afternoon slump.
6. Saying “No”: you say, “No,” more than you say, “Yes” because you have focus.
7. Priorities: chances are you have multiple items on your to-do list right now. They’re not all urgent or important. When you manage your priorities you’re able to rank them based on their level of urgency and importance.

Stop wearing the “I’m so busy” badge of honor. Instead find those true top priorities in your work and life and  say, “No,” to everything else.

If you need help, I’m here for you!