Worthwhile Resolutions

Most resolutions fail within weeks or even the same day. Why? They are not important enough for us to put in the effort nor suffer to make them happen. They are maybe a good idea we are not motivated to do.

How many resolutions are less weight, more money or win lotto? Decided years ago my health in retirement was worth making the effort to improve. Made permanent small efforts to eat smaller quantities, more good foods, exercise regularly and take the stairs. Result at 62: ideal weight range, good blood pressure, rehabbed rotator cuff & knees, and still playing volleyball.

Instead of the big audacious goal, pick small steps towards greatness. Here are incremental ideas you may be successful at:

Stop Doing Unnecessary Work

Certain tasks or reports are created for a temporary reason, and continue forever. Who is your customer for these? Ask them if they still need it? Alternative is to do the report, but then don’t send it out? See who asks for it?

My most successful projects last year was automating a manual task. Our programmer was able to get the information pulled from several sources, then inform the person responsible directly. Wrote up instructions, provided samples, and provide support. Freed up 80% of my time for new assignment.

Do Less, Accomplish More

Pick on one, two or three priorities and work one of them every day. Ask your boss to help you order your priorities, then even a couple hours will get plans started, necessary meetings scheduled, and a few actions completed. At the end of each project, start another priority.

Waste Less Time of Your Boss, Coworkers and Customers

Do you need to delegate, automate, tor stop asking questions. Build checklist for each task, and eliminate questions requiring extra calls or email. They will be more happy to receive your follow up reporting the task is complete. People love working with people who respect their time.

Less Distractions

What habits have you fallen into that could go? Putting down your phone in meetings? Try turning off notifications except for key programs. How about you read text between projects? Read email 3 times a day instead of every chance? Flow at work is key to productivity success.

Review Your Monthly Spending 

Save more by eliminating expenses. Pull up your credit cards, automatic payments, and checking/debit accounts. Where is the money going? Do you use it or is it a nice to have. ESPN for me is a use, HBO was a nice to have rarely used. HBO is no longer on my bill.

Review Your Career

Careers and promotions are built more on skills than degrees. Even if you get a degree, you still need applicable skills to use on the way.  What projects or tasks really interest you? What do you do that does not seem like work?

Second what we are great at often sneaks up on us. It may be easy for you, but no one else seems to be able to do it.  Keep looking for your gifts and write them down.

Summary

Small steps lead to large improvements in effectiveness, productivity, and success. Don’t go for the big goal without small actions steps. 
Happy New Year!