This next process is perfect when you have one big thing you need to get done and either you are procrastinating on it or once you start doing it you spend more time fiddling than actually completing the task. It is also good if you need to do something boring, like data entry or sorting out a pile of filing, that feels like it will take forever.

You will need a timer. If you don’t have one download one on Google.

Take your timer and put it on for 20 minutes. Then start the project. Do not allow yourself to do anything else until that timer goes off. Once it goes off you get the reward! You go for a walk, have something to eat, look at trees, have a cup of tea, even check your emails – anything that is nice for you. If the job is not yet completed then once you have had a break doing the nice thing then set you timer again and go for it. The trick is to keep up this pattern until the job is complete. Your brain knows that you will only be working on the boring stuff for a short while until you get to do something nice and, mostly, that carrot, combined with the necessity of getting the job done is enough.

If you are really easily distracted or really dislike the job you may need to decrease the work time to 10 or even 5 minutes. You can then gradually increase it until you can work for 20 minutes without distraction. You may be able to increase the actual work time frame however most people do their best work in periods of no more than 20 – 30 minutes. If you extend it to longer than that you may find you end up distracting yourself with the less or non important parts of the job. For example look at how long some people spend making the format look nice in a report!

Give it a try – and if it doesn’t work see my next post for another way to use time when there is just too many competing priorities.

Enjoy!
Gay   
 

---

Copyright © 2010 Create the Life. All Rights Reserved. This article may not be used without the prior written consent from the author. See below for more details…

DO YOU WANT TO USE THIS ARTICLE IN YOUR E-ZINE OR WEB SITE? You can, as long as you include this text copy in its entirety:

Attention All Service-Based Businesses… Are you marketing your business with Heart?
Get your FREE Marketing with Heart Guide now. If your passion is your business, then you need this comprehensive guide. Our fail-safe marketing strategies will help you to grow your business AND attract more clients without compromising your integrity. Learn the secrets to marketing your business with heart. Get your FREE guide & complimentary coaching session now, click here.