Get Things Done Faster and Achieve Your Goals

time_managementWe have always asked ourselves “how can I get things done faster so I can accomplish more of my goals?”  Sure.  We all like that to happen.  But really, the real question to ask is “how can I get more things done in a short period of time?”

There’s no magic formula.  You cannot just miraculously pull a few extra hours for your day out of thin air.  However, with careful planning and by using a couple of simple tools, getting things done faster may actually be possible.  Let’s get started on the right foot.  Here’s what you need to do first:

  1. Know where your time is going. Chances are you already own a smartphone. Figure out how to use its calendar function and use it.  If you prefer the old-fashioned way, go to the store and buy a daily planner like this.  Keep track of how you spend your time.  Most of your log will show you’re investing your time in people or things not really important to you or your goals.  Also, it’s important to use only one time management system.  Whether you choose electronic or paper system, one consistent system will eliminate much wasted time spent searching for information.

Sell, Sell, Sell

Get The Order We all have to sell, whether we realize it or not.  For those of us who own our business, we have products and/or services to sell.  Some make their living selling goods and services offered by their employers.  Even if you’re not a salesperson by profession, you still have to sell.  Anytime you need to convince someone to agree with you or get buy-in to your latest scheme, you are selling.  You have to sell if you want that plum project.  How about if you want to manage that high-profile account, or if you want your boss’ approval on your latest plan?  Well you have to sell and get the order.  To be a salesperson who sells, consider these :

  1. Know your customer
  2. Identify your customer’s pain points and needs
  3. Determine how your “product” will solve or satisfy your customer’s needs
  4. Make the “sales call”
  5. Ask for the order
  6. Develop an unshakable attitude of persistence and tenacity.  Be prepared to make as many sales calls as are necessary to get the order

Ten Things to Say That Make People Feel Good

Feel_GoodSaying nice things to people makes them feel good.  People who feel good about themselves and their jobs are happy and productive.  If they work for you, with you, or near you, they will propel you in front of them.    Be absolutely genuine; practice and remember to say:

  1. “Please”
  2. “Thank you” (A good boss has reasons to say “thank you” at least ten times a day.)
  3. “I appreciate your effort”
  4. “I hear nothing but good words about you”
  5. “Congratulations”
  6. “I need your help”
  7. “I am glad you are on the team”
  8. “You earned and deserve this”
  9. “You remember Joe Smith in our Marketing department.” (An introduction of someone to a superior.)
  10. “That was a first-class job you did.  Keep it up.”

Anything else you would like to add?

Life’s Test Kitchen

Test Kitchen

Photograph: Roger-Viollet/Rex Features

Yes, times are rough, troubles subsist, and downsides are still there, and that’s just life.  But how should one cope?  Here are the questions I usually ask myself:  should I just turn on my Wii and hoola-hoop my way out of this nagging feeling?  Should I take a long, brisk walk? Read? Go shopping?

I had a recent bout of frustration, boredom and a bad hair day–all in one day.  Armed with options I have mentioned above, I chose to stay put and read. I reached to my old gray notebook containing all my favorite quotes and short articles.  I randomly picked a page to read.  Here’s what I read on that dreadful day; one of  my favorite inspirational pieces adapted from AccessChristian:

Valuable Gifts For New Entrepreneurs

EntrepreneurWell, folks, it’s time to finish up that holiday shopping and get those last minute gifts. If you have a new entrepreneur in your life the holidays are a great time to help them out and give them something that can help out their business or their lifestyle. Starting a business is a long road and can be full of ups and downs, but there are many things that can make the whole process that much easier.

Books

Any entrepreneur will always appreciate a good book. Check out Amazon’s small business section. Some recommendations are “Trust Agents” by Chris Brogan, “Duct Tape Marketing” by John Jantsch and “Crush It” by Gary Vaynerchuk.

Corporate ID or Logo Design

Branding is very crucial.  A well-designed logo is a good starting point to have a corporate identity.  Get them a professional and creative graphics designer who will create something to make their company standout!

Ticket to a Business Conference or Convention

Get them a pass to a conference or convention so they can network and update their skills and knowledge with others in their

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