To progress on our major projects quarter after quarter, we need quality time and perseverance.
We often talk about unnecessary distractions. But I see another problem…
Useful distractions.
Other projects we’re eager to realize. Often, we feel even more like changing direction when we reach the difficult phase (the plateau) on our priority project.
I watched myself over the first quarter, and here is what I discovered.
Next quarter: 6 tips for success (Don’t give useful distractions a chance)
My experience of the first quarter 2024
I have 3 major goals for the year.
- Go from B1 to C1 in German.
- Get my PCC coaching certification. (professional certified coach)
- Double the company’s income.
The first one is my priority and I’ve made great progress in this first quarter.
But despite my best efforts, I was tempted by many “useful distractions” that tried to derail me.
- Chess. Noël Studer‘s course rekindled the fire of the game. I love chess, I could spend an incredible amount of time on it…
- Learn to use the AI: Test the different models, compare, choose the one that suits me, train myself…
- Improve my writing on social networks. Each social network has its own codes. I only use LinkedIn. I have lots of ideas on how to improve my visibility. It’s a project that helps me achieve my objective No. 3.
BUT
All these “useful distractions” require time and energy. It’s tempting to switch from one to the other, but it’s not effective.
If I want to make a breakthrough on my N°1 goal, I have to stay on course and focused even when it seems less exciting than the other options.
How do you stay on course?
Next quarter: 6 tips for success (Don’t give useful distractions a chance)
1/ Write down your objectives
Choose a tool you use frequently and write down your 3 goals for the quarter.
Make sure they’re aligned with your annual goal.
I use Evernote, but a Google doc or your paper diary will do just fine.
2/ Find your “Why
Below each goal. Write down a few lines about why you’re doing them. We’re all planners and doers. It’s very easy to disconnect from the “planner” when you have to “execute.”(Be realistic when you plan and optimistic when you execute).
3/ Objectif: Review them frequently.
86,000 responses. 11,000 leaders. And the most glaring point to emerge from this “Leadership Is a Contact Sport” study is the FOLLOW-UP…
The more you follow, the more likely you are to resist unnecessary temptations (social networks…) and even useful ones (other interesting projects).
4/ Anticipation: Block time in your diary
When I worked in the corporate world, executives used to plan their entire year. If I didn’t set aside time to work on my projects, my free time quickly disappeared. On the other hand, when I blocked time in advance, the others adapted to my schedule.
Set aside time over the next quarter for your essential projects. No one will do it for you.
5/ Anticipate your weeks ahead
Take a look at your diary at the end of the week to prepare for the next 2 weeks.
There are always changes. Make sure there’s still room for your priority projects, and visualize your plan.
6/ Useful distractions
When new good ideas come along, note them in your document under the “Someday/Maybe” section at the end of your objectives.
This will help you to avoid cracking now and give you plenty of ideas for the next quarter.
There are more exciting projects than time available.
And finally
Some are reluctant. It kills my improvisation.
Some people love to prepare but can’t execute them.
Most start but don’t finish them.
It doesn’t matter which side you’re on.
You can always try an experiment.
And what better time to try than in the second quarter?
Your first action. Set aside 45 minutes in your diary before the end of march to prepare for the next quarter…
For me, it will be March 29…
What about you?
Answer me directly in this email and share your important projects for the second quarter. (I read them all)😀
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PS: Whenever you’re ready, here are 2 more ways I can help you accelerate your important projects through coaching:
- You’re ambitious: you’ve already achieved a lot. And you intend to continue. But this time, you want to do it while enjoying the important things in your life. Curious? Click here.
- You lead a team: you know that a slight improvement in your leadership can significantly impact the team’s results and, therefore, your career. I was trained and certified by the world’s first executive coach, Marshall Goldsmith. I accompany you in your project and guarantee the result. You only pay me if you succeed. Curious? Let’s connect for a free call and see if we can work together.
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