This Means You Have Control
This past week, the topic of being “too busy” came up several times with different people, in a variety of situations. It seems especially common with people in the construction industry. Being too busy isn’t something that is specific to that one group of people though.
I understand the feeling of not knowing which way to turn. I still feel overwhelmed at times with so many things on my to-do list, but it doesn’t happen nearly as much as it used to. And when it does happen, I know how to deal with it, because …
This is something I have control over.
One of those conversations was with a subcontractor working on a project for me. He called one morning with his head spinning, trying to figure out what to do. There was a long list of tasks and a fast-approaching deadline. Carpet was being installed, which affected the installation of new doors and access to work in the closets.
As we talked, we narrowed the list down to three things he could do without interfering with the carpet layers. None of the things were a higher priority than the other. I told him he could only do one thing at a time, so just pick one.
After a little more second-guessing, I picked one for him: install the shelves in the bathroom first. A few hours later, he sent me a picture of the finished shelves.
It can be hard to sort through a long list and decide where to start.
But if we don’t do something, nothing gets done.
Another conversation was with a friend who’s been working to write and post a new blog each week. He’s been struggling to find the time, especially because it matters to him that they are well done.
It’s been a very busy year for him with a new grandbaby, home heating issues, his personal trainer quitting, an unexpected vehicle replacement, and rental property projects that need attention.
He asked how I’m able to consistently get my posts written and published each week. I told him about my conversation with the subcontractor. The same process fits here too. We can’t do everything at once.
When the to-do list gets long, it’s easy to feel pulled in fifteen different directions.
My natural tendency is to say yes to too many things. This leads to long lists and indecision about where to start. Knowing that about myself, I’ve implemented some processes and routines to help me manage it.
Things like:
- Being clear on who I am and what matters most
- Breaking big goals down into smaller tasks
- Accepting that I can only do one thing at a time
- Prioritizing the list and doing the first next thing.
- Scheduling things on the calendar
- Being willing to delegate
Next week, I’ll break down this process to take control of your busy life.
One of the tools I use daily is my planning journal. This is available digitally in the business building toolbox. If you prefer a physical copy, you can find it on Amazon.
And if you would like to talk through how I do this—or have other business building questions—feel free to schedule a meeting with me.
