Being productive is a perception

by Coachcubas

September 16, 2016

One must add, being productive . . . as compared to what?

That’s where metrics enter and matter.

We must understand the targeted outcome we strive to achieve. How else will we know we achieved it? Another key success indicator (KSI) is to know what is being measured.

It’s all about perception. For example, on a microscopic level, ants carry 10-50 times their body weight. But, humans are bigger, and barely carry twice the body weight. So who is stronger?

So, what’s the point?

An old paradigm of “exchanging time for money” fights against perception. That is why I typically use a project price for my fees. That way we are not looking at the clock and can focus on what needs to be done.

Tips for creating your personal “recipe” for productivity:

Identify and define what you want to accomplish—Is it a task or strategy?

Prioritize the sequence.
Assemble a list of resources and time involvement you will need to accomplish your goal.
What or who is driving the requested results?

For people working within companies, it is essential to know the originator of the outcome.
Then, understand what is driving the originator’s vision.

For example, a CEO who has a family member with a disease may want to fundraise or sponsor an organization that fights that disease. You need to know how important the outcome is to the individual.
Automate as many tasks as possible. Research a clever site, https://ifttt.com/recipes, to make custom recipes for your work style.

Checklist:

1. Track your progress.

Nothing “succeeds like success”, said Sir Arthur Helps, in Realmah (1868). [Quote is often attributed to Alexandre Dumas.]

2. Recognize the source of most interruptions.

Adjust your environment when possible to minimize them. For example, if you work in a cubicle, hang a “DO NOT DISTURB” sign with a sticky note so the person who stopped by can leave you a message.

3. Use timers

Set a timer when reviewing email.

When initially working with people, set the pace of how you use email and the best way to reach you when something is urgent.

Set up rules in your email to clear the debris.

4. Take a break and walk away from your desk. Adult learning research shows we are attentive for 50 minutes and then need a break. Also, moving changes perspective to refresh your attention.

Ever considered coloring as a stress reliever? For those of you who enjoy coloring, join our ant friends at a picnic! Download your Coloring page here.

For more tips, follow the Work-Live-Balance Myth here.

Let me know what works for you. ‘Til then . . .

Your coach,

http://feeds2.feedburner.com/blogspot/qDYb
c7e4232e6ad5e385652b43c83aeae033-1331863127

Coachcubas

As a credentialed business coach and analyst, one of my primary functions is to work with individuals and company managers to clarify where they are presently, where they would like to advance, and what tools they have and need to achieve their desired outcome.

I use a variety of tools to assess perceptions including Platinum Rule instruments, my experience and training in assessing behavior. My preferred tool is the EQ-i®, emotional intelligence inventory. I have specialized training on the EQ-i® and DISC Inventories and access to multiple other sources including a company culture index. I prefer the EQ-i® because it is the least judgmental instrument I have found. It focuses on strengths and areas of development related to the goals set by the individual. For example, people are more likely to apply the EQ-i®’s information rather than label themselves by the Myers-Briggs categories.

Uncategorized