Focusing on the MITs...or staying "really, really busy?"

This entry comes from thinking about some writing I was doing earlier this morning...before the day got started. I woke up early to get some "words on paper," and was inspired to write about an presentation I had seen recently on Oprah's website.

It was amazing to see this man in action...for those of you who have not yet heard him speak, here's the deal:

Randy Pausch is a married father of three, a very popular professor at Carnegie Mellon University—and he is dying. He is suffering from pancreatic cancer, which he says has returned after surgery, chemotherapy and radiation. Doctors say he has only a few months to live. (from the Oprah Winfrey website)

I started a company over a year ago because more and more people ask questions like this one:

"Is it possible to get more done in less time by multi-tasking?"

I want to share 4 of the things I do, techniques I use to ensure I get the MITs done each day. These might sound basic, they may seem familiar, but before you read through them too fast...pause and reflect on this prompt:

At the end of each day, did you do what you said you would do...in the time you promised?

1) Start with gratitude. I begin each day saying a little thanks. Now, you may be wondering if it's a prayer a meditation, a guided imagery process, a visualization...here's the deal: It doesn't matter what it is, just pause when you wake up and repeat this mantra: "Thank you, Thank you, Thank you."

2. Check in "productivity-wise." Every day (yes, even the weekends) you start with a plan for what you want to get done. So, come 'round lunchtime...do a check in. The question I ask myself is: Am I on course? What do I need to change to finish the day ahead?

3. Flip-forward to the end of a project. I have learned a lot from racing in triathlon. I tell ya the bitter-sweet truth: Winning a race does somethin' crazy to the mind. I remember the first time I stood on the podium (I earned third place) and I REALLY remember the first time I finished first in my age group! Ever since those (and a few others...), I visualize the race I'm going to compete in as if I'm placing and reaching the winner's podium. And, here's a Workplace Performance secret: I do the same thing with seminars, coaching, articles and consulting projects!

4. Ask for assistance. I know enough to know I don't know it all. And yes, it took a while to get there! I have a core group of people I call on regularly. Just look at this note I received today from a colleague I called and left a voice mail for this morning...

Hi Jason,

Congratulations on committing to write your first book! I’m sure it’s going to be terrific. I’d be delighted to help in any way I can. My experience is limited to small, mostly-Catholic publishing houses, but I might have a couple of thoughts to at least get you started down the right path.

How cool is THAT?!

Comments

[Dan]

For an implementation of GTD with MITs you might try out:

http://www.gtdagenda.com

You can use it to manage your goals, projects and tasks, set next actions and contexts, use
checklists, schedules and a calendar.
A mobile version is available too.

As with the last update, now Gtdagenda has due date for tasks (you'll see in the calendar on the right if you have tasks due today), task notes, and Email & Print support.

Hope you like it.

[Arnold]

# 2 hit the nail on the head....it is amazing how stressful a Saturday morning can be without a plan....too much opportunity dumped into a weekend from 5 long weekdays, too little time until Monday and there is always a backlog that must be waded through first. It is a great question is ask "What do I need to do to finish the day ahead." Thanks.