“My goal is no longer to get more done, but rather to have less to do.” ~ Francine JayI have trouble with systems. Developing them, putting them in place, and following them. The more I try to follow what everyone else is doing, the more frustrated I feel.
People are happy to share the methods they use with you. Assuring you that you’ll achieve the same level of success they have. They mean well. Often, they tell you their secrets as a way of trying to help.
But other people’s routines and systems are designed for other people. Not you!
You should create a system that helps you feel good about yourself and your productivity!
A Matter of Routine
Routines are an amazing way to help yourself succeed. It will probably take a bit of time to create a rock-solid routine, but that’s okay! Success doesn’t happen overnight. Therefore, you shouldn’t expect to create a strong routine overnight.
How do I Build a Routine?
Piece by piece.
Choose a few things that help you feel good and productive and begin incorporating them into your day and work. Do these same things each day.
For instance, if you want to incorporate meditation into your routine, pick a time of day and how long you will meditate. Then meditate every day. Soon this will become routine for you.
If you want to create a schedule, begin by making a list of your next day’s appointments each night before turning off your computer or going to bed. Do this every evening and soon it will become routine.
Bit by bit, you can add in new pieces to your routine and become even more productive. Before you know it, you will create a system of organization that suits your individual needs.
Organization Rules
It’s okay to follow the habits and organizational tools of other people as long as you use them as a starting point for creating a system that works for you. Make it your own and as unique as you are.
Creating a routine or system takes a lot of trial and error. And patience. Eventually, things will gel, and you will find things that help you operate at your best. Admittedly, this will take some research. Be willing to try different techniques. Keep what works. Discard what doesn’t.
Acknowledge Strengths & Weaknesses
Creating solid organizational tools designed to help strengthen your weaknesses and boost your strengths is a key component in helping you become more productive.
For example, if you struggle with time management, create a schedule for yourself that you can use most days. This will not only help you build a stronger routine, but it will also help you learn more about time management. You will figure out what takes longer than you thought, what takes less time, and what needs prioritizing.
Being aware of your strengths and weaknesses is one of the most important parts of creating a strong organized routine. Learning about these strengths and weaknesses can be daunting, but it can be as simple as recognizing how you’re feeling throughout your day. Several times throughout your day, take stock of your feeling. What frustrated you? What are you stressed about? What caused you to worry or what didn’t worry you at all?
Jot these things down.
After a few days, you’ll be able to identify patterns of behavior you might need to let go of or behaviors that might help with your becoming more productive. Maybe you’re not managing your time in the morning as best you could, leaving more to catch up on in the later part of your day. This makes you feel stressed; feeling as if you will not get enough done before the end of your day.
After jotting down your feelings for a few days, you’ll recognize behavioral patterns that are standing in the way of your productivity and, ultimately, your success. You’ll be in a better position to address those behaviors and create systems that will help you be more productive and reach your goals.
Eventually, you will create systems that become seamless throughout your day. You will feel less stressed, more secure, and better prepared for each day.
Takeaway
Whatever systems or routines you establish need to work for you. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try new things. You’re trying to become more productive, and that takes time and effort.
Affirmation
I know my limitations and understand when it’s okay to say no.
I know it’s important to stick to my plans and take action when needed.
I can easily see opportunities and seize them to cultivate success in my life.
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