|
In my Busy Coach workshops, I always emphasize that the key to getting more done faster and with less stress isn't just about tackling your to-do list—it's about strategy.
Before diving into your list, ask yourself this crucial question:
“What is the one thing I can do right now that would help me accomplish everything faster, easier, and more efficiently?”
Let’s apply this to one of the biggest productivity traps—email.
For over two decades as a coach, email consumed an enormous chunk of my time. I felt obligated to check it every 10 minutes, reacting to new messages instead of focusing on the tasks that really moved the needle. The constant interruptions stole time, energy, and attention from my bigger goals, like building a stronger program.
I had to step back and re-evaluate how I used email, and after some trial and error, I came up with three simple daily questions that transformed how I approached it:
1. Who do I need to lead or connect with today?
Instead of letting your inbox control you, take the lead. Who can you reach out to that could move your program forward? For instance, is there a club coach you can develop a better relationship with, or someone on campus you can thank for their help? Being proactive with this helps grow your network and build stronger relationships.
2. What or who am I waiting on to complete a task?
Look at your to-do list—what’s held up by waiting on someone else? Don’t let delays sneak up on you. Early in the day, reach out to the people or departments you’re relying on to give them time to respond before it becomes urgent.
3. Who needs something from me today (or this week)?
Anticipate others' needs. Is there something someone will ask for that you can deliver early? By thinking ahead, you reduce last-minute requests and give yourself more control over your schedule.
When I started asking these questions the night before and using them to guide my day, everything changed. Instead of reacting to my inbox, I was leading it:
- Urgent requests became rare, giving me more time for high-impact tasks.
- I no longer scrambled to get things I was waiting for.
- Sending one daily email to build relationships expanded my network, made recruiting easier, and fostered goodwill among campus staff.
This strategy seems simple, but asking, "What can I do today to make everything easier?" will shift how you approach your work. You'll start seeing new ways to streamline your day and focus on the activities that truly matter.
If you’re ready to make these proactive steps a habit, I’ve designed the Busy Coach Performance Planner to help. It walks you through these types of questions each day, so you’re not just getting things done—you’re getting the right things done, faster.
To your success,
Mandy Green
|
