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CDS Member News and ArticlesProfessional News Articles : FRONT DESK by Mary M. Byers, CAE : Setting realistic goals at home and work Setting realistic goals at home and workApril 3, 2009 Do you have too much to do and not enough time to do it? If so, you’re not the only one who wrestles with the “If I only had more time” syndrome. Here’s how to help insure your days stay manageable: Make lists. Ask yourself, “What needs to get done this week at home and at work?” Jot down work-related tasks on one side of a piece of paper and home-related chores on the other side. Getting things out of your mind and on to paper makes it easier to organize your work — and keeps your mind from having to work overtime remembering everything.
Check your calendar. Before moving to the next step, take a quick look at what’s on your schedule this week. Are you completely booked? Or is this a relatively easy week for you? If it’s the latter, you’ll be able to tackle more on your list than you will if you’re running from the time you get up until the time you drop into bed each night. Understanding your current workload is essential to setting realistic goals. In an effort to be super human, many people overlook this step.
Prioritize. Of the things you’ve written down, which are most important? Highlight the ones that have to be done this week. Move less important projects to a secondary list. Focus on the most important things first, then move through the remainder of your list as time allows.
Delegate. When your list is complete, ask yourself if there’s anyone who can help with each item. Is there a colleague or subordinate at work who can assist with your work-related list? If so, move what you can legitimately off your list and on to someone else’s. Then, repeat the exercise for home-related activities. Ask kids to help according to their individual abilities. Not only will this help you but doing so will instill both pride and a sense of responsibility in your children.
Identify extenuating circumstances. Are you facing unique challenges during this season of life? If so, you may not be able to accomplish as much as usual. A woman I know is currently shuttling between a nursing home and a hospital in order to care for two elderly aunts while simultaneously working part-time and caring for her children—all while her husband is away on business. Needless to say, she’s had to narrow her focus considerably. In order to stay sane, she’s given herself permission to let things slide without feeling guilty. Be willing to let go. The longer a project stays on your list, the less important it likely is. Be willing to cross things off your list when you realize you aren’t really serious about accomplishing them. Start all over. Too much to do and not enough time to do it? It’s time to sit down with another blank piece of paper and start the list-making and prioritizing process over! Those who excel realize that work is never truly done and neither is making and prioritizing a “To Do” list.
CDS presents Front Desk, a column addressing problems dentists and staff members experience in the office. Front Desk is prepared by Mary M. Byers, CAE, a professional speaker and freelance writer. Ms. Byers may be reached at mbyers@marybyers.com or www.marybyers.com. Send suggestions for topics to be covered to review@cds.org. |
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