Routine sets you free…
I’m a real believer in routine being a great ally in our productivity. But often we’re looking for that super “killer” routine is going to boost our effectiveness.
Make this the season of “no” (politely).
Don’t add, subtract! A great way to engineer a productive routine is to progressively get rid of “stuff” that isn’t the best use of your time. "Don't be a wandering generalist" - Zig Ziglar
Super-successful people are specialists in only a few key areas. I remember reading about Dr. Oz. A TV presenter, author, and a the height of his career still did heart surgery! But when he was in the operating room he ‘only’ did a very specific part of the surgery. The preparation, and conclusion of the procedure were done by others. He came in an left on cue.
Roger Federer was a great tennis player but likely lousy at badminton, and I'll bet he didn't spend much time managing his accounts. Great athletes, musicians, artists, and business people, focus progressively on what only they can do. In Roger's case, practice and play tennis.
Resources, and the three “Ds”
Ok ok …. you probably don’t have the resources right now that these guys had, but they started where you are. Get used to measuring what are the most productive uses of your limited time and double down on focusing only on those. For the rest of the "stuff" you have three options: the three "Ds".
Design. Construct a better way of doing something so it doesn’t take so much time. Often we get used to doing something because it works even though it’s inefficient. There are numerous ways to automate tasks with both teammates and technology if we bother to try.
Delegate. Look for leverage with people. Sometimes there are people that are much better (and cost effective) at doing a task than you are. If you have to pay them, then another bet I’ll make will be that you’ll gain the money back by doing more of what only you can do.
Delete. Sometimes procedures, documents, reports, or objects need to be removed from your environment. They no longer serve a purpose or they are costing more money than they produce.
Start now, today, and look at what you can politely say no to, to make time for your genius to shine. It’s a progressive approach and you're never "done", but it's something you can start immediately. Over time you'll be glad you did. Go nail it.
