Stop Setting Arbitrary Deadlines: Achieve Balance Through Better Time Management
As a small business consultant and real estate coach, one of the most common challenges my clients face is managing their time effectively. Time management is crucial for increasing revenue, yet many business owners unknowingly sabotage their efforts by setting arbitrary deadlines. You have enough actual deadlines with real consequences to manage without adding unnecessary pressure.
The Reality of Time Management
Time management isn't just about using tips and tricks. It's about fundamentally changing habits that have been ingrained over many years. These habits are often rooted in emotions like anxiety, fear, joy, care, love, and a desire to be of service. One significant area of focus for many of my clients is learning to be less overly accommodating. Today, I want to talk about another critical aspect: avoiding arbitrary deadlines.
The Trap of Arbitrary Deadlines
I’ve experienced the pitfalls of arbitrary deadlines firsthand. I remember a particularly chaotic period when I decided to repaint our foyer just before family arrived for Christmas. Amidst school, work, and holiday preparations, I set the unrealistic goal of finishing the painting before their arrival. This self-imposed deadline left us with no downtime, no family time, and no joy.
The Lesson Learned
Could we have completed the painting? Absolutely.
But was it worth sacrificing our family time to meet an arbitrary deadline? Definitely not.
When my family arrived, the room was still unfinished, yet we had a wonderful time together. This experience taught me a valuable lesson: nothing catastrophic happens if you wait a little longer to complete a task.
Embrace Realistic Time Management
Instead of imposing unnecessary deadlines, focus on spreading tasks over a manageable timeline. This approach not only ensures that the work gets done but also allows you to remain relaxed and joyful. By reducing self-imposed pressure, you can create a more balanced and productive environment.
Need help building better habits and creating a more joyful and successful business environment? Schedule a Discovery Call with us today!
