Do You Have Good Habits?
Being organized involves developing a habit for everything that we do. With so many new applications for our phones,computers and tablets, we can easily get side-tracked from what we Have To Do and concentrate more on what we “Think” we Need To Do.
Think of the benefits of having healthy habits. Simply by choosing the habit of eating healthy foods you can improve your healt
h and lose weight! What about the habit of organizing your day and business? Some habits that can help you stay on track are to:
1. Treat every client the same – have a system that you use from initial contact through to the end of your Contract together.
2. Develop the habit of follow-up systems to keep in touch with potential clients. What CRM system do you use? Are you using it consistently?
3. Consistently handle, file and scan paperwork on a regular basis.
These are just a few habits that you can develop to help you stay organized every day. Why? Because once habits are formed, you will have more time available to do other things…like things that you really may want to do!
Of course, the biggest distraction that I stops habits from being developed, especially for Entrepreneurs, is that there are a million ways to do the same thing. How do you make the decision whether you are doing it the “right” way or the “wrong” way“? What I will say is that there is no wrong way…as long as it works for you, your personality and your needs. Understand that if most of your business is done electronically, you can spend a ton of time researching a new, better and easier way to do something. Don’t get stuck in that rut. You are wasting a ton of time! If it isn’t broke…don’t fix it!
I find that one of their biggest struggles of Entrepreneurs is that they over complicate their habits. They have a habit of over-thinking how things should be done and, the result, is that nothing gets accomplished. No habits are developed – deadlines pass by and opportunities to meet new clients and make money diminish. Three habits that you can develop immediately to make a difference are:
1. Use a calendar system to keep your schedule. Don’t rely on your memory. Keeping everything in your head works for a short while…but to allow yourself to become productive and get more done requires you to have it either written in a To Do List OR electronically. I use the Android App – Get More Done based around David Allen’s concept of Getting More Done. If you use Apple Products, you may also like the Opius Domini. This application is based on the Franklin Planner system to stay organized. Either way – you can’t go wrong.
2. Identify things that need to be done every day, every week and every month and put them on your calendar immediately.
3. Identify a regular work habit for your schedule. If you were working a J.O.B. you would be required to be at the office between the hours of 9-5 and there would be certain expectations every day. Treat your own business in the same manner. Answer responsibly to yourself!
Positive and consistent habits will help you Do More, Be More Productive and Enjoy Life.
Linda Clevenger, Professional Organizer
Organization Direct
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