Upon us is the beginning of spring. Typically, a common time to do some “spring cleaning”. In the months leading up, work begins to pile up, the office looks like an F5 tornado came through, and potentially important work gets buried beneath the mounds of paperwork and clutter. Whether you’re a company officer, training officer, at home, or in your personal life regaining focus seems to be overwhelming at times. In the midst of the mounting chaos, we tend to lose our way and become discouraged. In hopes of regaining focus and getting back on track, consider these 15 maximizers to achieve a fulfilled day as a step in the right direction and add to your toolbox:
- Come in Early- Setting the tone for the day, promotes mental focus and sharpness.
- Prepare the Mind- Positive attitude, work ethic, mental wellness, and sense of purpose help to conquer the day.
- Have a Plan- Think about the things or items you’d like to be accomplished, prepare a general list by making notes kept in a central notebook or location.
- Organize- Before anything else the key to prioritization is organizing your office or work area. Place items with like meaning in files, folders, or binders. This will allow for reduced confusing and maximizing time and efforts.
- Prioritize- From the prepared general list prioritize those tasks by considering deadlines, relevance, and determining important vs. urgent. Assess the value in each task.
- Time Management- Time management is different than prioritizing in that prioritizing tasks assigns an order in which to complete based on importance. Time management consists of assigning a time allotment in order to complete the tasks. Assigning a time value eliminates tunnel vision on one item and allows for all to be completed within your designated task list. Incorporate a “buffer zone” to allow for unforeseen circumstances.
- Execute- The only way to get the tasks done is to execute the plan by applying focus and maximum effort within the self-assigned time allotment.
- Be Flexible- Be flexible and adapt to any newly issued tasks that may be placed on the priority list. Determine its place on the priority list. Things happen that need to be addressed. Time management and flexibility allows for success.
- Delegate- Tasks that are low on the priority list but need to be completed can be delegated to others. The key to delegation is that it allows for others to be a part of the team which leads to fulfillment, self-worth, and team cohesion.
- Goals for Tomorrow- The key to staying ahead is to plan for tomorrow. Set goals that maintain the momentum from the day before.
- Getting Ahead- Goals that are set for tomorrow can be accomplished today to get ahead. Time management allows for ensuring success of getting ahead and staying ahead.
- Encourage and Help Others- Self-fulfillment and purpose allow for the encouragement, inspiration, motivation, and empowerment of others. No day is complete unless value is added to others on a daily basis. Say thank you and show gratitude.
- Stay Late- Putting in extra effort and going the extra mile ensures commitment to achieving purpose even if it means staying late.
- Evaluate- Every good plan should be evaluated, and adjustments made to improve effectiveness, efficiency, and pursuit of excellence in the continuous improvement process.
- Pay it Forward- Knowledge is power. Greatness is achieved in the service of others. Offer what you know to others to make a difference, have their best interest at heart, and ensure their days are just as successful as yours.
Getting ahead and staying ahead take on so much more than the routine, everyday “do what I got to do”, for myself thought process. If you incorporate these tips to achieve success along with leadership, serving, and empowering others there is a much more substantive purpose which culminates into fulfillment and your place as a servant leader
“Great Leaders are built from Great Character”
-Thomas D. Kuglin Jr.