I find for me to be productive and effective I work better when I approach my day with bit-size pieces instead of diving headfirst into a never ending list of to-do items.
In addition to client work and personal responsibilities, there are seven core building blocks that I need embrace everyday. When I’m able to do these things I notice a greater level of happiness, forward thinking and creativity.
When I’m not able to practice these core building blocks it can become so easy to feel stuck, unproductive and moving backwards instead of forwards.
My daily building blocks include:
- Writing. When I stick to my guns and write on a daily basis not only does it provide value to you the reader, it also provides a platform to express my ideas, thoughts, insights and convictions. Read Michael Hyatt’s book, Platform: Get Noticed in a Noisy World
- Publishing. There’s one thing to write my ideas and insights, but without publishing them and putting myself out there, the chances of achieving a list of life goals will never happen.
- Connecting. At the core of any successful individual, you’ll discover someone that understands the value of others. As part of my yearly goal of being more intentional about everything I do, I have a plan in place to make sure I’m connecting with others on a daily basis.
- Reading. While I love to read, this is a daily building block that takes dedication. It’s so easy to put it off for later. However, as I have built out a daily writing schedule, I also have built into my day small time blocks where I read books, articles and blogs that inspire, challenge me, as well as educate me and will move me forward in my own business initiatives.
- Play. It’s so easy to become so busy that you never take time to play. For me I find rejuvenation by watching a sporting event. Other times, it’s some form of exercise. However, I’ve noticed if it’s not planned it never happens and I’m learning a life without play puts you on the fast track to burnout.
- Reflection and Rest. As a thinker, you’ll find me somewhere at the end of the day reflecting on the positive things, the areas I could have done better in and making notes on what needs to take place to move me forward and get me closer to my goal destinations. I’ve also learned that I’m not a late night person. I prefer rolling out of bed extremely early and getting a jump start while others sleep. Knowing that, I know how much sleep I need and I protect my rest like you would a commodity. It’s what makes me tick and I know what happens when it’s ignored.
What are your daily building blocks? What are you doing daily that is moving your forward and closer to you goals?
You’ve read my list. Now go make yours and not just another list, but a group of defined building blocks that you can commit to and be intentional about.
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image courtesy of Eran Sandler
