Extinguish the Overwhelm Fires
Tuesday, February 2nd 2010 @ 8:19 AM
Dealing with daily overwhelm - too much to do, too little time - is a constant state of affairs for the BusinessMom. If this sounds all too familiar to you read on....
Here are some of my SMARTcutTM tips for overcoming overwhelm:
1. Stop - Instead of creating a mile long "to do" list, start putting these tasks directly into a planner on a specific day and time. You are much more likely to accomplish your goal once you have decided WHEN you can do it. Even if you change your mind (always write in pencil) you'll at least have something to shoot for.
2. Eliminate - The 80%/20% rule applies to so much more than business. It's about life (and clutter). Most people only use about 20% of what they own. So whether its clothes, kitchen appliances or boxes stored in the garage, start with a goal of downsizing just 10% of "stuff". You'll have more time and energy to use and enjoy the rest.
3. Delegate - Most BizMoms continue doing many household (and office) things much longer than necessary. Start teaching your family members self reliance as soon as possible. Even if they aren't perfect at first, they need the chance to learn. Have youngsters set the table, load and unload the dishwasher, and be responsible for their own laundry (by age 8). Becoming a master of delegation will serve you in your business as well. Look for ways to add team members to your business, too!
4. Automate - Create reusable templates and directions so recurring household and business tasks are quick to repeat. Some possibilities include master grocery lists, housekeeping schedules, and business forms.
5. Just say "no!" - Although this phrase became popular to teach our kids to refuse drugs, it sometimes is useful phrase for BizMoms to remember too. When you are in the midst of raising your family and growing your business it may be time to cut back. If you find yourself and your family always rushing from one activity to the next consider cutting back.
6. Unsubscribe - Take a long look at the email, magazines, and junk mail you handle daily. See what will really not be missed and delete it from your life. Learn to use email folders and rules to keep your incoming messages automatically sorted for quick and easy reference. This way you can see and take action on “hot” items and postpone others (like store emails) until your off-peak hours.
It may be useful to print out this list and keep it handy to review next time you are feeling stressed. Kind of makes me think of the way to put out fire..."stop, drop and roll"! Stop having so much "stuff", drop some activities and commitments and roll some rhythm into your remaining tasks.
For more SMARTcuts™ visit http://BizMomTips.com
