Do you have a big project, whether in research, in writing, or something else, that just seems too big to take on 'right now' - and it just keeps getting put off? As Springfield family history and genealogy researchers we need to be able to get beyond that and get started on the project. Time Management Life Coach Elizabeth Saunders has written a short article that provides all the ingredients we need to get the project going: "The Counter-Intuitive Benefits of Small Time Blocks." [Thanks to Dan Curtis and his Monday's Link Roundup for bringing this article to my attention.]
Here is her skeletal outline (be sure to read her details):
- Write down all possible next steps involved.
- Schedule in just 15-30 minutes to move forward on the project.
- During that designated time, take action toward your goal.
- At the end of the time, write down any new steps you discovered.
- Repeat as needed.
I want to focus on why this approach can work, for you, and for me. "The short answer is: Any action is almost always better than none." This approach has worked for me a number of times. Other times, I forget, as possibly you do, and the project doesn't get done. Some further thoughts from Elizabeth, with my comments:
- Reduces build-up energy. Any progress is progress. We need to 'get at it' - using the small chunk approach will get us starter.
- Makes you like yourself & your project again. It feel so much better to be moving ahead on the project than procrastinating.
- Gives you time to get help. This is real important along with the last one. As you work on pieces, if there are roadblocks in the way, you will identify them and seek answers, as you go along.
- Allows you to unleash your brilliance. This point is likely why I'm writing this article for you. As you get to working on your project, even in small chunks, your mind will be working on the problem literally "around the clock." You'll be amazed at the new ideas and approaches that come to you, "when you least expect it."
What do you think? Has this worked for you? I look forward to your comments.
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