How to Get Things Done

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Author: Sharon Teitelbaum

Article source: http://stcoach.com/. Used with author's permission.

This is how to get things done: one step at a time.

Whether you're launching a global initiative, getting your finances in order, or potty training your child, one step at a time is the ticket to completion. Keep your focus on the step you're ON, and take that step. Resist your inclination to get discouraged or confused.

Last summer I learned how to cycle long distances and up hills in preparation for a charity ride. At first I got overwhelmed and panicky at the big hills, but I learned, gradually, to keep my mind and attention on my pedaling. Can I handle this pedal stroke? Yes. Can I handle this one? No problem. Each minute was do-able, and soon (or eventually) I was at the crest of the hill.

The individual steps are usually completely within our capability. And that's actually where progress is made.

Yes, the overall task needs to be within your range. If you're not an astrophysicist, you're unlikely to make progress in figuring out what's up with quasars. But chances are, the challenges you have on your plate right now ARE within your range of capability.

COACHING TIPS

For each major project on your plate, answer these questions for yourself:

1. What, exactly, is the goal here?

2. How will I know when I've reached it?

3. Is this goal within my range, even though it may be a stretch? (Or am I tackling quasars?)

4. Do I have at least a rough game plan?

5. Do I know what my next step is?

6. Am I taking it?

DON'T ALLOW YOURSELF THE LUXURY OF GETTING PARALYZED! If you can't answer these questions, get some help! Talk to a colleague, partner, or friend. Or contact me. I have helped many highly effective people get back into action.

Certified as a Professional Certified Coach (PCC), Sharon works by phone with clients around the world and in-person in Boston.

She delivers keynotes and workshops on work-life balance issues, has been in national publications including The New York Times and Working Mother Magazine, and has appeared on cable and network television. She publishes Strategies for Change, a newsletter offering practical tips for work-life success.

Sharon has been married for 30 years and is the mother of two amazing young women. You can contact her here.