Last week I wrote about Lou Holtz's mantra "What's Important Now"; or

W-I-N.  The concept is pretty simple--keep your mind in the

present and focused on what is most important right now.  The concept

may be simple, but actually doing it can be extremely difficult.

Here are 5 things that will help you accomplish What's Important Now:

1. Elimination- The first step to accomplishing what is most important is eliminating those things that are unimportant and unnecessary.  For instance:
   

• Interruptions and distractions- Studies show that it can take an

  average of seven minutes to regain your focus after being interrupted. 

  Turn off your phone's ringer and email alerts and close the door to

  coworkers.
  

• Unimportant tasks- Just because a task keeps you busy does not mean that it is important.
  

• Unnecessary meetings- These are the worst Time Suck of all.  This also includes unnecessary phone calls.
  

• Clutter- Excessive clutter pulls your attention away from what you're working on and can lead to stress.  Whether it's your home, office, vehicle, computer or drafting table--clean it up!


2. Single Tasking- Don't be like my son Charlie and try sticking your hand, burp towel and bottle in your mouth at the same time--stick to just the bottle.  A recent study suggests that multitasking actually lowers your IQ more than smoking marijuana.
   
   

3. Plan Tomorrow Today- I've mentioned this previously in Profit Tips; always be prepared for your day before the day begins.  This practice leads to #4...
   
   

4. Start your day with W-I-N- If your client's landscape plan is the most important thing you need to do today, then start working on it immediately.  Don't check email, open a magazine or anything else that may pull you in another direction.
   
   

5. Deconstructing W-I-N- Sometimes a task can seem so overwhelming that it leads to procrastination which tends to lead to stress.  Break your most important task into smaller more manageable tasks and tackle one at a time.  This is especially helpful for me when starting a landscape plan. 
   

What helps you focus on what's most important?  Feel free to share your helpful tips in the comments section below.

To Your Success,

Chris Heiler

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