Let’s do the Time (Fail) Warp
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Let’s do the Time (Fail) Warp

I don’t know about everyone else, but lately my time and energy seem to be dedicated to one of three categories:

  • Time-suckers: emails, social media, emails, RSS feed, emails…sensing a pattern?
  • Doing stuff: research, design, writing, editing, posting, tech maintenance, etc.
  • Getting stuff done: Actually crossing tasks and projects off the to-do list as complete. Rare as a hen’s tooth.

Here’s the breakdown time-wise:

I’m sure there’s a better way, and I’ve read a lot of great productivity articles (via the ol’ RSS feed, of course!), but it always feels like I’m playing catch-up with all of the “communication” needs.

Is this just how it is? Should I resign myself to a life of being held hostage by multiple inboxes, or is there a better way? *choked sobs* Suggestions…please!

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10 Comments
  • Fajr | Stylish Thought

    October 27, 2010 at 10:08 am

    If I knew the answer, I probably would write and Ebook and make thousands of dollars.

    What helps me is not trying to multi-task, because we really can’t do 5 things at once. I had to learn this the hard way.

    • tamia

      October 27, 2010 at 8:49 pm

      @Fajr: I try to focus on one thing at a time, but I get distracted so easily! I have the attention span of a two-year-old.

  • Susi G.

    October 27, 2010 at 3:20 pm

    Personally I think you seem very productive. Look how quickly you got the Style Tour together and posted! Of course, LOVE,LOVE,LOVE the 4th Street Boutique/Dress for Success article and tour stop. I think the key is to break large tasks down into smaller pieces so that they don’t seem so daunting. I treat web surfing as a treat when the other things are mostly done. You notice I said mostly. Carry on Tamia! You are doing a great job. Susi

    • tamia

      October 27, 2010 at 8:51 pm

      @Susi G: Thanks, Susi! It’s hard to stay on task when so much of my job takes place online…

  • MIHAL

    October 28, 2010 at 9:44 am

    read the 4 hour work week by timothy ferriss, it changed my life.

    • tamia

      October 29, 2010 at 12:30 am

      @MIHAL: I keep meaning to read it–I’ve checked out the site–but never seem to get around to it. Maybe after next week…

  • Alicia

    October 28, 2010 at 11:17 pm

    Of course there’s a better way! It’s all retraining your brain and making up new habits. Zen Habits has tons of articles on this very thing.

    At the very basest of levels, see if you can do a week (or day) without the internet. It’s amazing how much you get done. Trust me.

    • tamia

      October 29, 2010 at 12:29 am

      @Alicia: A week without the internets? I’m making confused-face just thinking about it.

  • Nogo

    November 1, 2010 at 3:44 pm

    OMG You stole my chart 🙁