We live in a world where paper dominates so much of our lives that we become overwhelmed and our productivity quickly begins to suffer. In short, chaos breeds ineffectiveness and we need to be effective in order to succeed.
Every piece of paper, every phone message and every email, carries with it a task, ranging in difficulty from relatively simple to complex, time consuming and extremely challenging. In order to maintain control and remain on top we need a system that allows us to move expeditiously through volumes of time-robbing, though essential, duties.
The most effective system for staying organized that I have ever come across has long been referred to as the Three D's. The D's stand for "Do", "Delegate" and "Destroy." When a task first arises, you should immediately decide which of the following dispositions is best suited and than act on it.
Note: For the purpose of this writing, "task" shall also include the disposition of items of paper, phone messages and email.
•1. DO - Simple tasks and urgent tasks should never be put off, not even for a short while. Each and every time a task resurfaces for consideration; your valuable time is further wasted. If the task is important or requires immediate attention, DO it now. If the task does not fit these criteria, proceed with one of the remaining two choices.
•2. DELEGATE - Consider the significance of the task at hand. Is the task something that could be handled more efficiently or more cost-effectively by someone else? Delegate non-income-producing activities to clerical staff or consider outsourcing to individuals who specialize.
It may feel good saving $15 or $20 by doing things yourself but you may very well be cheating yourself out of thousands of dollars in missed opportunity. Top Earners do just that...they earn! Top earners achieved that level of success while paying others to do their legwork and complete their menial tasks. Remember, the old saying? "Jack of all trades, master or none." You'll never get to the Big League doing it all yourself.
•3. DESTROY - Any task not important enough to fit into either of the above classifications is probably of little or no value and should be DESTROYED.
One final thought:
Take care of the most challenging and "dreaded" tasks FIRST.
Years of experience have shown me that when this advise is followed; the procrastination caused by dread is gone, the remaining tasks are a breeze in comparison, and your energy levels skyrocket because this weight has been lifted from your shoulders.
Thank you!
ARE YOU READY FOR THE BIG LEAGUE?
DOCUCHIVE & DOCUCHIVE CONNECT have the tools you need to get there faster!
Please feel free to visit us at Docuchive.com.
Let our expertise and efficiency become your stepping stones.
Comments(8)