7 Lessons from a Chaos Coordinator
I am about to share 7 of my favorite lessons that will help entrepreneurs get organized, become more accountable, and help to create the work-life balance they've been dreaming about!
1. One thing at a time.
When was the last time you gave 100% of your attention to anything? It's human nature to try and do multiple things at once. And as expectations rise and deadlines get tighter, multitasking seems like our only option. But here's the problem... multitasking is a myth. What feels like doing multiple tasks at a time is actually our brain frantically switching back and forth. And each of those switches takes a toll with researchers saying you lose 20% of your overall productivity for each task you try to take on at once.
This is why it is so critical to practice single-tasking AKA "one thing at a time." When you focus on just one thing at a time, it is proven to help you get tasks done quicker and at a higher quality than trying to do multiple things at once. Many studies have shown that it is also better for your emotional and mental health to focus on just one thing at a time. So next time you're feeling overwhelmed and like you are being pulled in a million different directions, step away for a moment, take a deep breath, and when you get back at it, focus on just one thing at a time. You'll be amazed at how much more you will accomplish and how less stressed and overwhelmed you will feel!
2. Know your deadlines.
Having deadlines and meeting them can be an effective way to make sure you achieve your long and short-term goals. Regardless of their nature, deadlines can have a direct influence on your future plans. Being able to meet a deadline is an important trait, but it takes discipline and determination. Deadlines are important to help you stay focused. As you jump from one task to the next, at some point, you need to actually finish what you started. Below are some tips on mastering deadlines:
Understand your goal;
Create a timeline;
Cultivate a positive attitude;
Focus on one task at a time;
Give yourself an earlier deadline;
Do daily self check-ins;
Use a master to-do list;
Avoid distractions;
Work when you're most productive;
Develop a reward system and celebrate wins - big or small!
3. Back up everything.
I don't say this lightly! Backing up your business data is one of the safest ways to ensure that you're being proactive about your data and it’s security. This way, if disaster strikes, you can rest easy knowing that your information still exists. Nothing lasts forever. This is especially true when it comes to pieces of hardware such as computers and external hard drives. There will eventually come a day when your computer wears out and puts you at risk of losing all of the data kept on it. Any files that you deem important should be backed up on a regular basis. This will save you a ridiculous amount of time should disaster strike.
4. Establish some routines.
It has been said that humans are creatures of habit, and while we like moments of spontaneity and surprise, we feel comfortable when we know what to expect and can follow a plan or schedule. Routines are important because they create structure, they give us a sense of accomplishment, and they let people around us know how we are doing. Some examples of routines could be checking your email for 20 minutes each morning or going to bed at the same time each night. Whatever the routine is, it is important to establish some that will help make your life easier.
5. Take care of yourself.
Neglecting self care is common among entrepreneurs in the early stages of their business, working a day job and cramming the rest into that time once earmarked for rest, fun, or family. Entrepreneurship can be challenging. With everything on your plate, it's easy to ignore your own needs. But beware: the cost of not taking care of yourself now is much greater in the long run. If you neglect the needs of your mind and body, you're not bringing your best self to the table, and your business will suffer. Remember to move your body, get proper rest, engage in activities and hobbies outside of work, eat nutritious foods and drink plenty of water, 2-3 liters per day! Set alarms on your phone throughout the day to help you remember to drink up.
6. Delegate, delegate and delegate!
Delegating is important because you can't (and shouldn't) do everything yourself. Delegation is a key factor in entrepreneurial success, on both a personal and professional level. Successful delegation allows you to hand over tasks to others whose skills are better aligned to accomplish that specific task. Force yourself to delegate what you can. Once you've taught what needs to be taught and made your expectations clear, trust who you've hired to help. You never know, this could change you and your business in the best way possible!
7. Make time for fun!
Having passion projects or an enriching hobby will help you rest and recharge, but also help you innovate and be more creative, and in turn, a better entrepreneur. All work and no play won't make you productive. More often than not, it makes you lose focus and make mistakes. Make time for fun in your life, whatever that means for you. It will help you rest, recharge and gain fresh perspectives to innovate faster and solve problems more efficiently. Besides, what is life without fun anyways?
