Latest "Personal development" Posts

Support women in leadership ~ Be Brave!

March 8, 2021

No one is an instant leader. But for women, the journey to more responsibility can seem more arduous than most.

Women represent more than half of the world’s population but still lag behind in leadership roles, from local businesses all the way up to national politics and global organizations. For decades, private and public entities have been studying the problem and investing in solutions — all of which seem to fall short.

Women have been told to lean in and speak up (even if we are interrupted more). Our nations have focused millions on programs to help women break into traditionally male-dominated fields. And yet, the percentage of women in leadership or senior management roles or worldwide is still only 30%.

Women at the boardroom table

What are we missing?

I’ve been a serial entrepreneur throughout my adult life. I’ve been an owner or a co-owner of a number of companies. I didn’t experience many of the horror stories I’ve heard from women who were blocked by their male counterparts.

But I did have to overcome my own fears and feelings of unworthiness. I’ve used the lessons I’ve learned in my own life to help elevate other women, and I’m often asked what others can do to help women feel more secure in their abilities. On this International Women’s Day, I encourage people who want to support women to be BRAVE.

Believe

It’s natural to look at other people’s strengths in the workplace and see them as a threat to our own — after all, business is competitive. One of the best talents you can develop is the ability to see women as they could be and fully believe in their potential. Many women don’t envision themselves taking on greater responsibilities until someone encourages them.

Recommend

Invite women into decision-making roles and promote them through your words and actions. If you’re brainstorming how to fill a seat on a board, think of the professional women you know. If you have an excellent coworker, suggest that she apply for a promotion. We have a collective responsibility to open our imaginations and welcome women to the table.

Amplify

It can be difficult for women to be heard in groups. Studies have shown that women are perceived differently when they speak up than men are. We can combat this problem by lifting up women’s speech and thoughts at the board table. Instead of thinking or nodding your assent, vocalize it. When women contribute ideas, recognize them. Amplify women’s voices to ensure they are considered.

Validate

Take time to mentor and validate women. Your contribution can be as simple as sending an encouraging note about a creative solution to a problem or recognizing a special skill, or as involved as serving as a mentor. Whatever you can do to help a woman grow and develop her leadership potential will ripple out into a positive difference in the world.

Encourage and Elevate

The growth process doesn’t end when a woman attains a seat at a board. It’s a career-long — or even lifelong — commitment to shunning comfort and embracing challenge. Encourage women to make the jump to the next level of achievement. Let them know that you will support them as they make the leap.

It takes time to build bravery. I often tell clients that it’s like driving a car: At first, everything seems foreign. You might not know where the turn signal is or when to shift gears. In time, though, driving becomes second-nature and you’re driving hundreds of miles without an ounce of apprehension.

Women have an enormous capacity for bravery when they believe in their own abilities. As co-workers, colleagues, mentors, sisters, brothers, and loved ones, we have a responsibility to foster women’s confidence and empower them to reach their full potential. Encouraging women to be brave starts when they are young girls in school. Check out this inspiring Ted Talk by Reshma Saujani.

The world is a better place when women rise up. This year, let’s commit to lifting them.

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Posted by Margaret Page in Entrepreneur, Business, Personal development, Gender, Women, Uncategorized, Business Etiquette, Communication and tagged , , , ,

My Five Top Reads of 2020

January 19, 2021

I was grounded, like so many other frequent flyers, for the duration of 2020. The upshot? More time for my already voracious reading habit. My five top reads helped me refocus and rebuild when the rest of the world seemed to be falling apart. I hope you find inspiration in them, too.

My five top reads for 2020 by Margaret Page

The Leader’s Checklist: 15 Mission-Critical Principles.
Author Michael Useem is a professor at the Wharton School of Business who has mined crucial events throughout history (the American Civil War and the rapid failure of AIG shortly before the Great Recession, for example) to determine how and why great leaders succeed. He distilled these lessons into 15 short lessons that I find fascinating. As a result, I now regularly reference Useem’s checklist to ensure I’m following the right path in my own leadership journey.

Stories That Stick: How Storytelling Can Captivate Customers, Influence Audiences, and Transform Business.
This might be the most influential book I read all year! I find myself turning again and again to Kindra Hall’s storytelling tips and strategies. Hall makes the point that our ability to communicate effectively and persuasively hinges on our ability to connect with our audiences. Storytelling is the way to make it happen. This book is engaging, smart, and an impactful read for anyone, from sales representatives to marketing execs to people who want to improve their public speaking or writing skills.

Limitless: Upgrade Your Brain, Learn Anything Faster, and Unlock Your Exceptional Life. How appropriate that this was written by a person named Jim Kwik! If you’re looking to do more in our increasingly fast-paced, time-strapped world, you’ll love the “3 Ms” Kwik outlines in his book. I may not have the ability to read a book three times faster than normal, as Kwik promises, but I love the empowering feel of his advice.

Pitch Perfect: How to Say It Right the First Time, Every Time.
Bill McGowan is a consultant and correspondent who teaches people how to deliver their messages quickly and with maximum impact. As someone who regularly speaks in front of large audiences, I’m always on the lookout for advice on how to improve my skills — and McGowan truly delivers. His “principles of persuasion” are a must-read for anyone and can be used in your everyday life.

Building the Best: 8 Proven Leadership Principles to Elevate Others to Success.
The last of my five top reads assists those of us in leadership roles. We have an obligation to do our best — and that involves ensuring the success of others. LearnLoft CEO John Eades makes the case that rapidly changing technology and organizations require a different type of leadership. One that is based on carefully encouraging others while keeping an eye on long-term goals. His book gave me a chance to examine and hone my own leadership style.

How about you? What books got you through 2020 and have inspired you to shoot for success in 2021? Have you read any of my five top reads? I’d love to hear your recommendations — I read a book a week, so your suggestion has a good shot at winding up in my must-read list!

#leadership #books #reading #technology #advice #audience #pitching #presenting

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Posted by Margaret Page in Entrepreneur, StartUp, Business, Personal development, Time management, Self Care in challenging times, Uncategorized

Don’t Just Set a Resolution. Plan For Being Human

December 29, 2020

I love the promise of a New Year’s resolution, but let’s face facts: Most people abandon theirs by Jan. 19. That’s not even three weeks of trying to change! After years of personal goal setting and coaching clients through overcoming obstacles, I’ve found that most resolutions fail for a very simple reason.

We just don’t plan for being human.

New Year's resolution

We have a fantasy that, through sheer force of willpower, we’ll be able to tackle our resolutions no matter what life throws at us. Unfortunately, that’s often not the case. When we need to accomplish something difficult, many of us shoot for perfection rather than progress — and that’s a surefire way to sabotage ourselves.

This year, don’t just set a resolution. Make a sensible to plan to achieve progress you can build on. By this time next year, you’ll be amazed at what you’ve managed to accomplish.

Go for standards rather than goals.

A goal is something you reach and then try to top. For example, let’s say I want to bill $3,000 worth of business each week. Once I reach that goal, I immediately set the number higher.
A standard is a habit that becomes part of who you are. My standards include sending one thank-you card a day and writing down three things I’m grateful for.

Goals are great for helping us feel like we’re improving, but it’s better to set standards that will serve you well over time (and now that we’re home more and have fewer distractions, it’s a great time to lock new standards in).

Focus on the short term.

The world is moving too quickly to plan very far ahead. Who knows what technology and our day-to-day lives might be like in five years? Instead of making a long-term plan, set your sights on the next 30, 60, and 90 days and get clear on what you’d like to achieve. How would you like to feel at the end of the month? What changes would you like to see at the end of the season?

Set strategies.

There will be good days and bad days as you improve yourself — even good weeks and bad weeks. You’ll handle hurdles more easily if you set a hiccup-proof strategy to reach your desired outcome.

Let’s say you want to lose 20 pounds. Most people go on drastic diets with high failure rates, and those who succeed often gain the weight back within a year. What would happen if, instead of focusing on the scale, you chose to enjoy eating healthfully? What kind of pleasure would you get from selecting new recipes out of a plant-based cookbook, for example, or having freshly pressed juices delivered to your door? You might not get the payoff of losing a lot of weight in a short period of time, but you’ll build sustainable strategies that will lead to gradual (and lasting) change.

Are you making a resolution for 2021? What are they? I’d love to hear about the changes you’re planning for yourself.

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Posted by Margaret Page in Christmas, Personal development, Time management, Uncategorized and tagged , , , , , ,

Client and colleague gift giving during the holidays

November 24, 2020

The holidays are the perfect time to show colleagues and clients how grateful you are for their hard work and support. With a few simple tips you can gift like a pro, even during COVID.

The biggest question I get this time of year is always, “How much do I spend?” I advise spending no more than the tax credit allowed in your country for professional gifts. For example, in the U.S., the IRS allows a $25 tax deduction for each professional gift.

Holiday gift giving for clients and colleagues

Your Boss

Ask around to see if there is anything in the company’s rules or in the employee handbook that discourages giving your boss a gift. If others see “gifting up” as a no-no, suggest a gift from the team. If you do go solo, good options include a donation to their favorite charity, a bottle of wine (make sure they drink alcohol!), or a gift certificate to a local small business. And don’t blow your budget trying to impress them — expensive gifts can be awkward.

Your Team/Support Staff

If you manage others, choose gifts that show that you see them as individuals, not just as employees. I like giving gift cards to their favourite store or restaurant, or for activities they love. Gear for hobbies like golf balls, books, fishing flies, or art supplies are also a nice choice. Or upgrade their workspace with a beautiful leather notebook, fancy water bottle, or essential oil diffuser. A handwritten note of thanks that touches on their unique talents or contributions is a must.

Your Co-Workers

Again, feel out the culture for this one. Do others typically gift? Do they organize an activity like a Secret Santa or gift swap? Read the Your Team section above for gift suggestions. Give gifts discreetly so others do not feel left out. And if a co-worker surprises you with an unexpected gift, offer a heartfelt thank you and leave it at that. Scrambling to reciprocate could be seen as insincere.

Other Colleagues

If you want to spread good cheer to colleagues you like but don’t work with directly, bring in a tray of store-bought treats or special nuts, etc. for everyone to share. Avoid home-made goodies this year do to Covid-19 transmission concerns.

Secret Santa, Dirty Santa, or Yankee Swap

Forget gag gifts. Period. Instead, buy something you would like. Gift cards, coffee, wine, and food are all great ideas. Most likely, office Christmas parties will be on hold for this season anyways.

Clients

Make sure there isn’t a policy at your company or theirs that precludes you from giving a gift. Rules like these seek to prevent bribery and favoritism. Also, check to see if your company buys a quantity of gifts to send clients (for example, fruit baskets). The gift suggestions in the Your Boss section also work well here.

Most importantly, no matter who you are buying for, keep in mind the following:

  1. Choose gifts that reflect their personality and show that you have spent some time thinking about what they will enjoy or impact them in a positive fashion.
  2. Keep within your budget.
  3. Send the gift giver a thank you note or a Christmas card thanking them for their gift.

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Posted by Margaret Page in Christmas, Business, Personal development, Business Etiquette, Etiquette Tips

Claim Your Beauty!

August 4, 2020

Claim Your BeautyOur lessons often pop up when we least expect them. Especially when it comes to beauty.

This is exactly what happened to me several years ago.  I had agreed to spend a couple days helping two colleagues who were facilitating a workshop in Vancouver. At the end of the first day, the three of us went out to supper to discuss workshop events and plan for the following day. Naturally, the conversation moved to our personal lives. Because I was single, Doreen asked how I was doing in the relationship department. I revealed that I had recently enlisted the services of a matchmaking company.

“The thing is, I don’t like writing my own profile,” I admitted.” The sample profiles I saw all started with, ‘I am attractive, I am beautiful, and I was advised to follow this approach because men often use appearance as a key factor in selecting the women they want to date. But saying ‘I’m beautiful’ just did not feel right to me.

“It’s not that I think I am ugly,” I clarified. “I just don’t look at myself as beautiful. I’m really uncomfortable writing, ‘I am a beautiful woman.'”

Doreen looked directly at me, eyes fixed on mine, and declared, “Margaret, you have to claim your beauty!” I began to squirm. And then I did what I generally do when I do not like where the conversation is going – I changed the subject.

Over the next three days, my mind kept drifting back to Doreen’s assertive statement: “Margaret, you have to claim your beauty.” She was right, of course. Why was I so reluctant to stand up and acknowledge my own beauty? Why did the very idea of it make me uncomfortable?

Somewhere along the way, we learned that it’s wrong to judge people by their appearance, and we’ve carried that lesson one step too far. Some of us are even reluctant to acknowledge another woman’s beauty. Somehow, this seems inherently wrong.

On the last day of the workshop, my attention kept shifting from one group to the other, and then suddenly I noticed her. There she was – across the room, looking radiant.

It was several seconds before I realized the woman who looked so gorgeous was me. Yes, me. I had glimpsed myself in the mirrored panel of a piece of furniture halfway between the two groups. And in that moment, I saw myself as beautiful.

When I shared my discover with Doreen, she was delighted with my news and hugged me tightly.

Elated, I arrived at my dinner engagement that evening with a friend I hadn’t seen in months. Her first comment was, “You look absolutely wonderful!” Twice more through dinner, she said, “I can’t believe how terrific you look.” I beamed.

Later the next day, my real estate agent showed up for an appointment. She walked in and started talking. Halfway through her first sentence, she stopped, looked closely at me and asked, “Did you get a haircut?” I replied, “No.”

She continued talking as we walked to my kitchen. When we got there, she asked, “Did you lose weight?” I replied, “No.”

She kept talking but suddenly stopped and looked at me more intently. Then she said, “Well, whatever you’re doing, don’t stop. You look absolutely terrific.” Patricia’s comments decorated my life like cherries on top of a sundae. A smile crossed my face – you know, one of those smiles that go from ear to ear and almost hurt the kind of smile you give when you’re in love.

I would like to say that euphoric feeling has lasted even to this day, but I have to acknowledge that it has faded, just like being in love can fade. The human mission, it would seem, is to seek flaws and flush out imperfections. Of course, if that’s what we’re looking for, that’s what we see. That’s why we have to keep our attention on our beauty, the magic that naturally radiates from each and every one of us.

From that day forward, I vowed to see much more than my imperfections. Now when I look in the mirror, I wink at myself and say, “Margaret, you are beautiful.”

Not only does this help me appreciate my own radiance, but it also helps me appreciate the beauty of other women as well. Five years ago, I would have felt uncomfortable telling a woman, “You’re beautiful!” But now it just flows out of me, a genuine and heartfelt expression of appreciation. Isn’t that beautiful?

As a coach, I recommend:

1. When you receive a compliment, graciously accept it and “take it in.”

Don’t resist it, don’t argue with it, don’t deflect it or bounce it back to the person who gave it. Take a deep breath and savour it. Smile and say thank you!

2. When you look in the mirror, break the habit of checking for flaws. Instead, wink! Say something complimentary. Then blow yourself a kiss and say, “I am beautiful!”

While this may seem silly or self indulgent at first, it will lighten your spirits and remind you to focus on your beauty. Try it – it works!

3. Let the mirror tell you to just “be” beautiful

Our lives are so filled with “doing” that we rarely take time to enjoy “being” by acknowledging our own beauty. The next time you get ready for the day, tape a note or write directly on your mirror: “I am beautiful.” Because you are.

4. Be bold enough to acknowledge another woman’s beauty

We see ourselves so often that we tend to lose perspective. Go ahead, empower another woman by telling her how attractive she looks. It will give you both a lift.

5. Share Beauty Affirmations with your Girlfriends

Spend an evening with your close girlfriends over a bottle of wine (or any other favourite beverage) and take turns sharing what you find beautiful about each other. Focus on outer and inner beauty! This exercise encourages me to give complements more often. You will come back to this evening many times in the future, guaranteed!

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Posted by Margaret Page in Personal development, Women, Self Care in challenging times, Ask Miss Maggie and tagged , , , , , ,

To Mask or Not to Mask? It’s Not Just a Question of Etiquette

July 21, 2020

As the pandemic grinds on, whether to wear a mask in public or in shared spaces continues to be a question for some people — but is it a question of etiquette?

Here in my native Canada, where sound policy has helped us avoid the skyrocketing cases we see in other locations, mask wearing still isn’t as accepted as it is in other countries. Yet the evidence is there: Wearing a mask can protect you and the people around you from needless suffering.

Etiquette doesn’t exist just to make the person practicing it look sophisticated; it’s a system of protocols designed to make other people comfortable. From that point of view, wearing a mask is the right thing to do (never mind the health benefits). With that in mind, let’s look at the etiquette behind mask wearing.

Mask Etiquette During Covid-19

Follow the law

In some places like in the province of Quebec, wearing a mask isn’t a matter of personal choice — it’s the law. If you are in a location where face coverings are still an individual decision, adhere to the guidance from your local health minister or health authority. You may be required to wear a face covering only in places where social distancing isn’t possible, for instance, rather than every time you leave the house.

Respect the rules when you visit businesses

If the business you’re patronizing requires masks, put one on — if you don’t, you may be at risk of being kicked out. Employees often must serve as enforcers of these rules, which is an extra burden during an already stressful time, so please save them the added aggravation of chasing you through the store!

Set your own rules at home

You are the queen or king of your castle and can decide whether you’d like visitors to wear a mask. If you do require it, let them know ahead of time so they can prepare. The same rule applies for people who might be entering your home, so note that when you arrange for services like repairs or house cleaning. An option is to have masks available at your home for visitors.

Mind your words and your emotions

I’ve learned that it’s impossible to manage or control others. If you absolutely must talk to someone about mask wearing, first state what you are doing and why. Adopt a curious tone: “I’d like to talk to you about face coverings. I noticed you’re not wearing one. May I ask why?” Realize that you may not get the answer you’re hoping for — during this time of heightened emotions, the response may not exactly be favorable. It’s unfortunate that I must say this, but you should also understand that you could be physically at risk if you broach the subject with a stranger.

Limit Exposure when you can

Of course, mask wearing is just one way to prevent the spread of COVID-19. I don’t go to the grocery store anymore and instead opt for grocery delivery. I also take advantage of online retailers like Amazon to reduce the risk of exposure for myself and others. Better yet check out local suppliers that will deliver to you.

Are you wearing a face covering? How do you broach the subject with guests in your home or with friends and family who don’t like to wear masks? I’d love to hear about your experiences in the comments below.

 

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Posted by Margaret Page in Personal development, Self Care in challenging times, Uncategorized, Etiquette Edge and tagged , , ,

Ready to Become a Zoom Master?

April 14, 2020

Many of us have jumped into the Zoom world out of necessity, with many aspects of daily life now handled via video chat — club and business meetings, family dinners, play dates, pub nights, and even holidays!

Thanks to my work with Toastmasters, which has clubs throughout the world, I’ve had the opportunity to work with online meeting platforms for 10 years. What I’ve noticed is that many of us are comfortable with in-person meetings, but not quite so comfortable handling the challenges of remote communication. After all, the cues that we usually pick up on in person — such as the way a person enters a room or body language — aren’t available on a platform like Zoom.

Zoom Webinar

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Posted by Margaret Page in Entrepreneur, StartUp, Business, Webinar, Personal development, Uncategorized, Business Etiquette, Communication and tagged , , , ,

How are you Coping with this Period of Isolation?

March 31, 2020

After a meeting in Denver a couple of weeks ago, I took a flight back home to Canada and immediately went into self-imposed isolation. I went into my alone time with a gung-ho attitude and made lists of everything I would like to accomplish. I was ready!

My birthday was a few days into my isolation period, so my daughter and grandsons left a beautiful Black Forest cake on my doorstep. As I smiled and waved at them through my front-door window, I noticed the youngest’s eyes filled with tears.

How are you coping during isolation?

It broke my heart.

When I was growing up, we were constantly bombarded with the threat of nuclear war — but we still went to school, played with our friends, and visited our relatives. As I looked at my grandson, the enormity of our current situation hit me and I felt his sense of unease about the future.

I know you’re used to receiving emails from me about how to boost your confidence and your business. But right now, I’m focused on ways I can support you. The truth is, none of us know what will happen next. But what I do know is that this current moment isn’t about discovering new and better ways to make money. It’s not about opportunities to build our brands. It’s about the preciousness of life.

So I’d like to ask you: How are you coping with this period of isolation? Through my work, I’ve learned that most of us can be broken into two groups — those who crave certainty and those who thrive on variety. With that in mind, here are a couple of tips to help you stay positive.

If you feel like your world is heading out of control

The only thing we can change in this moment is ourselves. If you’re missing the order and routine of your pre-coronavirus existence, create new rituals!

I’m using this time to introduce habits that will serve me long after the danger from this illness has passed. I’ll be perfectly honest: It has been a bit difficult to create a lock-down routine and stick with it. But if there has been a blessing from all of this, it’s the gift of time. I get up every morning and recommit to my plan for setting improved standards.

Maybe you never had time for breakfast before, or maybe your sleep hygiene hasn’t been up to par. This is your chance to practice self-care while introducing order.

If you are climbing the walls

Make a list of things you want to try, write them down on slips of paper, put them in a bowl and pull one out every time you feel unsettled. I have been re-learning the Rubik’s cube — something I used to be able to do in my sleep — and trust me, that occupies plenty of time. I also mastered this cups routine. Now, I’m tackling some choreography! I’ve also been planting spring greens, a gentle reminder that life continues to grow and thrive.

Take care. Be gentle with yourself. (I’m refusing to beat myself up for eating that Black Forest cake by myself.) Please reach out if you need help. We’ll pull through this together and be wiser for it.

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Posted by Margaret Page in Personal development, Time management, Self Care in challenging times and tagged , , ,

30 Ideas to Enrich Your Life During Self-Isolation

March 19, 2020

Covid-19: What you can do during your self isolation

These are strange, uncertain times — so many of us are practicing self-isolation in our homes and are cut off from regular contact with friends, relatives, and colleagues.

But this period also presents an unprecedented opportunity!

Instead of seeing your time at home as a jail sentence, it’s time to get creative. If we use our time wisely we can emerge from this pandemic smarter, prepared, and with a new appreciation for life.

Here are 30 ways you can use this time to enrich your mind, heart, and home.

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Posted by Margaret Page in Personal development, Time management, Self Care in challenging times, Uncategorized and tagged

Is It Time to Throw Work-Life Balance Out the Window?

March 17, 2020

After presenting a workshop recently, an audience member asked me how I achieve work-life balance.

I hated to disappoint him, but the truth is that I don’t.

We’re taught that work-life balance is the optimum outcome — a perfect mix of hard work and play, with as much opportunity to rest and recharge as to absorb ourselves in the tasks that will propel us up the ladder.

I don’t know about you, but that model has never worked for me. And honestly, I don’t want it to! I no longer strive for balance. I go for flow.

Busy woman on a broomstick trying for work-life balance

You know what flow feels like: You’re completely enthralled with whatever you’re doing, whether it’s writing a report or playing with your kids. You’re present in the moment. Time doesn’t stop, but you’re no longer aware of it.

I found that when I focused on balance I became preoccupied with what I needed to do next to maintain equilibrium. My world was a black-and-white series of tasks. When I’m in flow, my world lights up in Technicolor.

So how do you get to this seemingly magic state? By doing less, not more.

Know where your time goes

You’ll never get in flow if you don’t know where your time goes, so begin by tracking your time for a week. How much time do you spend with your family and friends? How much time you spend working? How about the time you spend doing things you don’t want to do? How many hours are spent working on projects that bring you a sense of accomplishment? You can use an online time tracking service like Toggl or Harvest, or you can simply use a spreadsheet or a good old pen and paper. The important thing is to be honest. If you spend two hours a night watching “Seinfeld” reruns, mark it down.

Determine how you want to feel

Knowing your desired outcome is key to making good decisions about your time. Do you want to spend more time with your friends or create more space for building your business? Which of your interests are hobbies and which bring you real fulfillment? Which areas of your career serve your goals and which are pure busywork? You’ll need to understand what you want out of your life before you take the next step.

Ruthlessly edit your time

Take your tracked time and look at it with a critical eye, keeping your desired outcomes in mind. Categorize your time using these questions:

  • What can I give up?
  • What can I eliminate?
  • What can I delegate?
  • What routine tasks must I do every day?

Here are a few examples from my own life.

Give Up

I used to wash my hair every day, then take about 45 minutes blow drying it and styling it. I decided to see what would happen if I gave up that daily process and instead did it every third day. Not only do I save 90 minutes over the course of two days, but my stylist says my hair has never been healthier.

Eliminate

I quit watching live TV years ago. I was spending hours on it, sitting through the same commercials over and over again, and wondering where my time went. If I watch TV at all now, I use a streaming service that dispenses with commercials altogether so I can make the most efficient use of my time.

Delegate

I recently hired a cook to drop off healthy meals once a week because I was finding it difficult to do so myself. The cook receives employment doing something she loves, and I find more time to do the things I’m passionate about. Thanks to social media and services like Postmates, you can quickly find someone to help you with just about any errand or time-consuming task that doesn’t fit your priorities right now.

Routine

Exercise is non-negotiable for me because it keeps me mentally and physically fit. Your non-negotiable might include reading your child a story before bed every night or enjoying a cup of coffee by yourself in the morning. Whatever your non-negotiables are, make them a routine so the actions that bring you the most health and happiness are part of your everyday life.

Find Your Flow

Once you have gone through the process of giving up, eliminating, delegating, and making priorities routine, you’ll discover that you’re left with the activities that really spark your senses and challenge you in meaningful ways. That doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t course correct. Every time you want to add a new project or hobby, go through the editing process again. The goal is to find the right rhythm for you, not to struggle to balance competing interests.

How do you feel when you’re in flow rather than trying to find the perfect work-life balance? What are the strategies you use to find it? I’m interested in hearing what works for you, so please let me know in the comments below.

 

 

 

 

 

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Posted by Margaret Page in Personal development, Women, Time management and tagged , , , ,