If you’re anything like me, you are bombarded with problems all day long. As property managers, that’s just what we do.
You give your attention and your time to whatever comes your way. After all, if not you, then who?
The problem is some us actually feed on this frenzy of activity. We identify with it. If we’re not busy all the time, we just feel a little off. It’s like we’re not doing enough and that feeling gnaws at us.
I’m going to suggest how you respond to the many “shiny objects” will make the difference between being busy and being productive.
Here’s a strategy that might help you survive the maladies of this intoxicating temptation I call “shiny object syndrome” (SOS).
Problem: You can’t see the forest through the trees. You identify with being busy and react to every issue that comes your way.
Solution: Focus on fewer, vitally important things, one at a time.
Benefits: Your efforts will result in your highest return on your time. You win.
How do you do this?
- Block your calendar. Even if it’s only for an hour.
- Close your door. Your open-door policy is great, but not expected 100% of the time. If you have a door, close it. If not, find a quiet place to concentrate.
- Mute your phone. Like texting and driving, it can wait.
- Disable your alerts. These incessant reminders only take your focus away from your priorities and tempt you to respond to someone else’s agenda. Don’t. At the very least, mute your computer. One step further: unsubscribe to everything you don’t read.
- List your Big 3. Of everything you’ve got on your plate, list the top three items that, when accomplished, create the greatest advantage. Call them your Big 3.
- Tackle your #1. Envision your end game on #1. Organize your message. Recruit your team. Delegate, divide and conquer. Keep at it until you’re done. Then go to #2.
Question: How can you reduce YOUR temptation to chase shiny objects so you focus on the one thing that truly matters? Discover what your choices say about you.
Please comment with your feedback and suggestions on how you combat SOS. I read every comment, so be sure to share your thoughts.
Gip Erskine, CPM®, CCIM® is a 30+ year commercial property management veteran and the founder of EverSmarts™. Blending his MBA and industry experience with intense study of personal development, he trains property teams and individuals just like you. He developed a unique success curriculum calledChange Course designed specifically for property managers tasked with doing more with less. Through his teachings, Gip gets you past the state of overwhelm and helps you focus on what matters in your career and in your life.
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