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Learning To Finish One Thing Before Jumping To The Next
NEXT! My mind seems to always be jumping to the next thing on my to-do list (often before finishing the task at hand). I think this is a common affliction across the board for Geeks – and lovingly referred to as GeekADD. So here are 5 helpful “Get ‘Er Done” habits I’ve been working on to combat GeekADD:
Your Environment Matters
It’s important to create an environment free from distractions. Yes that means turning off Tweetdeck, Tweetie, Socialite, and any and all chat clients. I’d also recommend turning off your TV, Pandora, iTunes, Radio, etc. Also, keep your immediate surroundings clean and organized. This will help free space in you mind for creative thought.
If you’re a writer like me, then I recommend using a program called WriteRoom – which provides “distraction free” writing on a Mac. Or if you’re a PC user (for shame), then I recommend JDarkRoom.
Set Time Limits
Sometimes you’re just not in the mood to tackle a particular project or task. That’s when I recommend “dipping your toe in”. Think of it like exercise. Some days the last thing in the world you want to do is workout. But instead of giving up completely, you decide you’re going to go workout for at least 15 minutes. And the next thing you know that 15 minutes has turned into 30 minutes or even an hour. All you needed was to start.
The same is true for tackling work projects. Here’s a quickstart guide to “Dipping Your Toe In”.
- Pick one project (preferably the one that’s currently mission critical).
- Set your timer for 10 minutes.
- Work intently on that project or task for the full 10 minutes.
- When the timer goes off – decide if you’re going to work for another 10 minutes, or if you’re going to set the project aside.
- Continue setting the timer for 10 minute intervals until you can’t focus on the project/task anymore or until the project/task is complete.
Chances are when the timer goes off the first time, you’ll be so immersed in what you’re doing that you’ll continue on for at least another 10 minutes. Little by little does it every time.
Use Rewards
Having something to look forward to is another way to keep yourself motivated and focused on finishing your projects/tasks. Do you want to go watch the latest blockbuster movie? Did you see a cute dress on sale at Ann Taylor that you’re just dying to go try on? Then make it a point to reward yourself with a movie or new outfit (or whatever it is that motivates you) when you’ve completed a series of projects/tasks.
You could even set up a point system. For example – for every 5 tasks that you check off of your to-do list – you get to go to the mall and buy yourself something nice. Or maybe you get to go have dinner with a friend. Or spend an entire evening doing nothing but reading.
The hard things in life are more fun when you know there’s something to look forward to.
Be Kind To Yourself
Some days it will be easier to focus than others. That’s okay. Just do the best you can. Guilt, worry, anxiety, shame, and fear keep us stuck, and make it nearly impossible for us to give our full attention to completing our primary objectives. Don’t let these time-suckers keep you in a state of perpetual procrastination.
And when in doubt – remember sometimes all you can do is EMBRACE THE CHAOS.
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Erica OGrady is the CXO of Peanut Butter Media. She is currently HOMELESS while working on a project called Twilight & Tea. Erica is a Writer, Adventurer, Explorer who Still Believes in Santa and Following Your Bliss -- For more information Text ERICAOGRADY to 50500
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Very useful tips.. Wish you delved even deeper ..but I guess you were on to the “next”
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