Since you will NEVER get it all done, you must learn to focus on getting the most important things done. However, to do what is most important you must first know what is most important i.e. you must understand your true objectives, your major goals, your final end in mind. If you have not locked on to your Desired Result, it is very easy to mistake endless/mindless activity for progress. Activity, no matter how emotionally satisfying (checking lots of easy, minor things off your list while ignoring the elephants) that does not Effectively and Efficiently lead to your goals is a waste of time and energy.
While it is often necessary to do both, there is a HUGE difference between:
- Being Busy and Being Productive
- Working Hard and Working Smart
“Busy-ness” without productivity is an easy trap to fall into; working hard can actually be soothing, distracting one from deeper issues that may be unsettling to dwell on. Working smart requires that you stand outside yourself, evaluating yourself objectively. It involves new territory for many and can be uncomfortable at first. The temptation is to justify and defend the status quo for it is familiar and known, ego can be at stake.
Closing Quotes:
“The bad news is time flies. The good news is you’re the pilot.” – Michael Altshuler
“If you don’t know exactly where you’re going, how will you know when you get there?” – Steve Maraboli
“Those who make the worst use of their time are the first to complain of its shortness.” – Jean De La Bruyere
“There is nothing less productive than to make more efficient what should not be done at all.” – Peter Drucker
“It’s not enough to be busy, so are the ants. The question is, what are we busy about?” – Henry David Thoreau
As always, I share what I most want and need to learn. – Nathan S. Collier