Time management FAIL

November 13, 2014/Mary Cravets/2 Comments

Last Monday, I had a short list of easily accomplishable tasks, and a small amount of time to do them. I was going through my list one item at a time, and then my first appointment of the day cancelled.

I thought – oh cool. I’ll get that calendar scheduling program set up, update all my social media profiles, and start organizing our move to San Luis Obispo.

WiresFAIL!

Why is it when time opens up, we have to cram it with twice as much stuff? Notice I didn’t even consider doing something relaxing like taking a walk or going to a yoga class!

Nope. Here’s what I did:

  1. I immediately stopped looking at my original list, which totally messed up my priorities.
  2. I took that unexpected space in my calendar and immediately tried stuffing it full of other items. This is an example of working in direct opposition to my VALUES (specifically FREEDOM).
  3. I filled the open space, choking out room for new things to come in. It’s basically like saying, “No thanks, universe, don’t give me anything else. My time is CHOCK full. And if it isn’t, I’ll just make myself busy. Don’t bother me with new clients or opportunities.”

When I became aware of what I was doing, I quickly outlined this article, then went back to my priorities.

The lessons here are twofold. First, when space opens up in your schedule, finish your original priorities, and then consider taking the rest of the day off. Enjoy some of the freedom that is supposed to be a part of the entrepreneurial experience.

And second, build some open space into your schedule. If you literally do not have a second to spare in your day, where is the room to grow?

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Mary Cravets

Mary Cravets is an award-winning Client Generation Expert and International Speaker who helps people grow their businesses without working nights and weekends. She’s heard ALL the confusing and conflicting advice out there - so she isn’t surprised that most business owners struggle to establish a sustainable business. But she’s here to change that. Using her methods, the majority of Mary’s clients quickly increase their income 50% or more. Clients range from the former CFO of Microsoft North America, to coaches in their first few years of business, to thought-leaders in a variety of service professions. Mary is also a huge fan of roller coasters, obsessed with otters and proud Mom to her cat Inneego Montoya.

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Comments

  1. Lynda says

    Love love love this post! So true and such a trap that I find myself falling into as well. I am pretty good at scheduling in time for myself…but unscheduled breaks still throw me off a bit – thank you for this!

  2. Patricia Wheat says

    Amen Amen. I just did this today! Raced from a meeting to a doctor’s appt. When I arrived, they informed me that the doctor was in emergency surgery. I left and went straight back to my office in Sedona and commenced to spinning my wheels! Thank you Ms. Mary. I am giggling at myself!