Boundaries
April 2nd, 2008 | Published in Authenticity In Entrepreneurship | 4 Comments
I was just reading this post over at Astrid Lee’s blog. The whole post is centered around 7 Secrets to Eliminate Chaos and Gain Peace and Prosperity.
The piece I was most intrigued by was the second secret - Create Time Boundaries. I’ve just recently become very good at this.
Ok, raise your hands - how many of you multi-task and think that’s an effective way to get things done?
See, I used to think that too. Being a mom, a wife, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a business owner - good grief - how do you fit it all in?!? Balance… but that’s a topic for a later date.
The real way to fit it all in is to STOP MULTI-TASKING, and start setting and keeping your boundaries.
There have been studies that have proven that multi-tasking doesn’t work. And that makes sense because when you’re trying to fit 100 tasks into a 15 minute time-frame, there can’t possibly be depth and conscious in anything that you’re trying to accomplish.
If you become focused. Do one thing at a time. You will find peace, balance, and quality in your life.
Where are the places in your life that you are multi-tasking? What boundaries do you have? Do you honor your boundaries? Do you have fear around setting boundaries?
About Jenn Givler
April 2nd, 2008 at 8:40 pm (#)
I so so agree, Jenn. So agree. I still ‘attempt’ to multi-task (read: lie to myself) but at least it’s with a little self-knowledge that I should stop soon.
I think I mainly multi-task in dipping into email/blogs/and other forms of digital connection while trying to get other projects done. For me, it may be less about boundaries, and more about a need for connection- to not feel so isolated.
And I think also it has to do with some natural boundaries around how long I maintain focus. My wife, Holly, can focus for hours- she’s like that. i tend to work in 20-90 minute chunks, and I want to honor that more, and let go when I’m done.
April 4th, 2008 at 2:54 am (#)
All I can say is—I am right there with you. Although, I too do not multi-task as much as a use to either. Most of the time, I end up missing something and then having to redo whatever I started to do anyway, so what’s the point.
One of the biggest ways I ended my multitasking—set a timer or at least set a time dead line to complete tasks. This works VERY well for me and I get things done much more effectively like this.
For instance, if I am in the middle of a task and the phone rings and I need to answer it, I do so (also setting a limit on the phone call as well) and then continue back with the last task I was doing.
Also, I stopped writing a HUGE LONG to do list (this was thanks to you Jenn!) for each day and just focusing on the most important 5-6 things for one day. Then I complete those and if I have the time or want to continue with other tasks, then I add them to my list. However, by doing this, I am constantly feeding my need to have those infamous check marks that scream (HEY! Teresa, you completed this task).
I think the biggest thing is just taking one thing at a time and not trying to swallow the cake (everything) all at once…because that is when you tend to choke. However, when you chew things with intention and then swallow…things go down a heck of alot easier.
Again….you never fail to write great posts!
Sincerely,
Teresa Morrow
Key Business Partners
Virtual Assistance & Online Promotion
for Coaches, Speakers and Writers
April 7th, 2008 at 2:50 am (#)
I gave up multi tasking most things years ago except doing paperwork while I watch TV.
I hate paper work and I HATE commercials so I combine the two….enjoy the shows and then get busy on paper work during commercials.
Otherwise its one task at time for this gal and I stress the same to my kids
Now Jenn we need to talk about that word balance you mentioned……….
Close your eyes and say the word balance and get back to me what images, ideas, thoughts enter your mind when you say it and then we’ll up it up for dicussion on your fab e group
xoxox
b
April 7th, 2008 at 11:21 am (#)
OMG Brandy… I love the exercise you gave.
I closed my eyes and visualized balance… and… well… let’s just say I’m going to choose a different metaphor from now on
I’d love to talk about it at Thriving Healing Business - Please feel free to start the conversation!
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