Yesterday started with the greatest of intentions. I intended to further my dream—to realize the launch of a new product for which I have so much passion. I sat down in my office, eager to continue my work on this product—I even had the time “blocked” to do it. I turned on my computer, and checked my email. Two hours later, after addressing e-mails, being distracted by de-cluttering my office and two incoming calls, I was in the same place as when I turned on my computer! The many things and tasks around me clamored for my attention and I gave it—and lost my footing in the process.
With so many options and distractions in our world, it can be difficult to remain focused. Even when I know better!
I sat down in my office with a vague idea (but not a concrete idea) of what I wanted to accomplish. I have my lists. (And yes, these lists are usually on paper, because I am a dinosaur who still holds more faith in “inking it” than hitting “save” on the computer and sending it into the ethers.) Regardless of where you keep your list, the problem lies with the execution of your list. How can you stick to a plan when so many things threaten to derail it? How do you remain focused when there are so many things that must get done?
Having coached clients for over ten years and studying what the successful and consciously living do, I believe I have the answer.
Ritual.
Regular structure allows for planning, visioning, and deliberate action. With a ritual, you will drive your day rather than the details of the day driving you.
Your ritual needs to be the first thing that gets done no matter what. It need not be long, in fact, it shouldn’t be long--I believe it can be completed in just 16 minutes a day.
How? It all starts before you turn on your computer…
Step 1 (5 minutes) Plan your day. Begin with a blank piece of paper and write down what would make today a successful day in all ways. What can you realistically accomplish today that would make you feel successful and happy about your progress? Go ahead and write it down.
Place those items into time slots throughout the day, preferably doing the most difficult tasks earlier in the day when you are at your peak.
Step 2 (3 minutes) Visualize your day in advance. Visualization is a powerful tool. After Step 1, imagine yourself at the end of your day. Look back on it with great satisfaction and a smile on your face. Imagine yourself embodying all of the traits that you need to succeed; tenacity, preparedness, confidence, organized, calm. See your accomplishments—and enjoy your success. Feel and get comfortable with the results—notice how easy it was.
Step 3 (3 minutes) Mine for Gold. Ask your Higher Self or your intuitive mind for any additional information or answers to challenges. We always have more untapped information. Such intuitive insights are often lost because we don’t take the time to ask, trust and act on it when it comes. Ask any question, for example, “Who could help me complete that project on time?” or “What resources can I tap that I haven’t yet?” Write the insights that come to you and add into your day.
Step 4 (2 minutes) How do you feel? You create in direct proportion to how good you feel. Manage your state by speaking positively about yourself and your potential, making sure you support your body with whatever it needs--food, exercise, breathing, daylight, etc.
Step 5 (3 minutes) Gratitude and success. What five things are you grateful for? Name five areas in which you’ve succeeded. Write ‘em down. (If you don’t acknowledge yourself and give thanks for what you have, why would you expect to get more?)
Visit your list at least twice a day to remain clear and focused on your direction. Employing a daily ritual espouses confidence and results. After avidly planning your day, you’ll be less likely to entertain interruptions. Instead, you’ll easily address the distractions and stay on track.
Aren’t your dreams and goals worth 16 minutes of planning?
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