“”As a StoryAthlete, I know that deliberate transformation is dependent upon routine. Nothing is left to “chance.” My routine is designed for optimal productivity and performance. It forces Progress. Each day my schedule influences my actions and my actions determine my results. The ultimate mind asset is my ability to take decision out of the equation.”
Steve Jobs.
What image came to mind when you read those words?
You probably had an image flash in your memory of a bearded, almost bald man wearing a black turtleneck, black jeans, black belt and black shoes.
Because that was Steve Job’s ‘uniform’. Like a few other brilliant people, Steve figured out that the less time spent making daily repetitive decisions (like what to wear), the more time and ENERGY he could direct to more important matters.
It’s taken me years of having that repeated to me in various ways, but it is finally sinking in to the point that I’m implementing an actual SCHEDULE.
In the past, I thought that if I chose that route, my life would be boring. But I’m discovering that the opposite is true.
About two weeks ago, I wrote out a rather rigid weekly schedule and started keeping it, albeit imperfectly.
This past week, I made the decision to work on my sleeping and rising times, since those were my Achille’s heel.
I don’t have much of a track record yet (4 days!), but in these 4 days, I’ve noticed something amazing – when I finish one task, I look at my calendar to see what the next time block is and I know immediately what to work on next.
For example, as the Lord puts different people on my mind throughout the day, I jot their names down, and there is a 30 minute block I have set aside each day to call them.
As an entrepreneur, I have a dozen things or more that have to be done every day – calls to be made, clients to take care of, bills to be paid, marketing to create and run.
Now, instead of running around like a chicken with it’s head cut off, putting out one fire after another all day long, I am practicing to throw tasks into ‘buckets’, and then I’ve set a specific time each day when I allow myself to take care of those buckets. What a tremendous stress-reliever!!
This has been such a fun week! I’ve had conversations with people I haven’t spoken to in years; and I’m close to either signing agreements to list or purchase several properties.
I’ve accomplished more this week than I normally accomplish in a month.
And since I’ve finally SCHEDULED time in to spend with my family, I’m seeing more of them too! 6 p.m. on Thursday? Time to go play outside with my 6 year old!
Btw, for the first time in years, my phone actually gets set to ‘silent’ during those times!!!
Every day leaves me so energized and looking forward to the next day.
Part of it is the thrill of accomplishing so much and riding the wave of momentum that is gathering. Part of it is going to bed by 9:30 PM instead of after midnight every day.
Who would have thought that keeping a schedule could be so fun?!