When I was growing up, my mother was the great defender of prioritization – done your homework? cleaned your room? washed your hair? No task to small or too great – all must be accomplished in a timely fashion.
As a result, I am now a master list maker – daily, weekly, monthly…business, personal, potential. When I stray from those lists (or worse, neglect to make them), work life goes asunder and I skip happily off to lala land.
Every few months, I meet up with a group of women in the same line of work as me, and we share tips on how to keep oneself above water and swimming forward. I found our last meeting particularly useful, as it was all about finding ways to work more efficiently. Some suggestions that stuck with me:
1) Start your day by looking at your list of things to do, and no matter how long the list may be, just select 3 items to complete. If you finish those items in good time, select 3 more. Then call it a day.
2) Limit your email checks to 3 – 5 times per day. Don’t let that constant stream of emails distract you from your tasks.
3) Build “cave days” into your regular work routine, and don’t allow anyone or anything to keep you from completing your goals for that day.
On the day I took these pictures, I had a mini cave day. I set aside 4 hours alone in the Story Story Night office to complete 3 very important items on my list. With those tasks finished, I had about 30 minutes to take these photos with my computer cam before heading off to yoga. Priorities!
Speaking of, this is truly a priorities-based outfit. While not the most flattering frock (I feel a bit like a spokesmodel for the Stylish Stork in this getup), it is hopelessly comfortable and makes my bicycle commute an easy one. And as a bonus, all I had to do to prep for yoga was kick off my shoes and whip off my dress. How’s that for efficient use of time!
Dress: organic cotton & bamboo pocket-frock by Pi-Tees
Leggings & sport tank: Target brand
Shoes: leather loafers by Cole Haan
Earrings & Necklace: Hazel Cox
Bracelet: hand-beaded gift from Kelly Lynae
Ring: old pawn Navajo turquoise & silver
