How to Get Things Done - Work-Life Balance Articles

How to Get Things Done
By Sharon Teitelbaum, MA, MCC, Sharon@stcoach.com

This is how to get things done: one step at a time.

Whether you’re launching a global initiative, getting your finances in order, or potty training your child, one step at a time is the ticket to completion. Keep your focus on the step you’re ON, and take that step. Resist your inclination to get discouraged or confused.

Last summer I learned how to cycle long distances and up hills in preparation for a charity ride. At first I got overwhelmed and panicky at the big hills, but I learned, gradually, to keep my mind and attention on my pedaling. Can I handle this pedal stroke? Yes. Can I handle this one? No problem. Each minute was do-able, and soon (or eventually) I was at the crest of the hill.

The individual steps are usually completely within our capability. And that's actually where progress is made.

Yes, the overall task needs to be within your range. If you’re not an astrophysicist, you’re unlikely to make progress in figuring out what’s up with quasars. But chances are, the challenges you have on your plate right now ARE within your range of capability.

COACHING TIPS
For each major project on your plate, answer these questions for yourself.

1. What, exactly, is the goal here?
2. How will I know when I've reached it?
3. Is this goal within my range, even though it may be a stretch? (Or am I tackling quasars?)
4. Do I have at least a rough game plan?
5. Do I know what my next step is?
6. Am I taking it?

DON'T ALLOW YOURSELF THE LUXURY OF GETTING PARALYZED! If you can’t answer these questions, get some help! Talk to a colleague, partner, or friend. Or contact me. I have helped many highly effective people get back into action.

[Back to Motivating Articles]

Copyright 2000-2008, by Sharon Teitelbaum, all rights reserved.

For permission to reprint this article or to use it for anything other than your own personal use, contact me.