None of us operate at our full potential. Our lives are filled with a myriad of distractions, both on and off the job . . . especially, the “ping” of incoming emails.
The other day I was meeting with 30 senior executives. When polled, everyone indicated that they were traveling “full-tilt” in their roles and that they were constantly scrambling to catch up and contribute even more. Universally, everyone acknowledged that they have yet to unleash their full capabilities.
A few practical strategies that world class performers embrace:
- Productivity Zone: Know when you are most effective – morning or night. Squeeze in an extra hour. There are twenty-four hours in a day—use them. Rise an hour earlier or go to bed an hour later.
- Exercise: Religiously exercise both your mind and your body. The mind can stay sharp only if the body is well cared for. This includes nutritious food, plenty of water, quality rest, and vigorous workouts.
- Continuous improvement: It is embedded in every high performer’s DNA. Status quo is death. Successive iteration and continual tweaking is the path to creating distinctly superior products and services. Stretch yourself to be a little better every day.
- Prioritize: Ask, “What is the best use of my time – right now?” Priorities shift and sometimes we don’t always make the corresponding changes.
- Delegation: Be self-disciplined toward meetings attended and tasks delegated. World class leaders are always assessing who else could / should assume responsibility, and what developmental paths might be utilized to ready directs to become more experienced.
- Emails: high performing executives guard against the lure of the “Ping!” of incoming emails. They know that every “ping” is a distraction. Hence, they only check emails during prescheduled times.
This week create a list of strategies that will enable you to access more of your potential.
Best wishes in reclaiming your life and career, and may you stop salivating at every email ping!
