Debunking Your Need for Speed

In our work environment, the fast vs. slow choice is not always as clear.   We constantly need to balance productivity vs. quality approaches to our tasks.

Ancient Literature

Our struggles with pace related decisions and recognizing false urgency are legendary.  Aesop’s Fables date back to the 15th century.  These two are still relevant to this topic today.

• The Boy Who Cried Wolf addressed false urgency in the 15th century.
• The Tortoise and the Hare still teaches us about both approach and arrogance as the slow and steady approach wins the race.

What’s really changed over the last 600 years?

Basic Time Economics

Time is our most limited resource.  Your supply is limited.  The demand for your time is not.

What happens when the demand for your time is greater than your supply?

What too often happens is stress, panic, vacillation and frustration. What should happen is prioritization, communication and managing expectations that lead to effective decisions about how to allocate this scarce resource.

Time Management and Your Limiting Beliefs

When the demand exceeds your available time, do you find yourself believing that:

• Just because someone gave a request, you must comply
• “Now” really means “now”
• Saying either “no” or “not now/later” is not an option
• The instant approach is the best solution for the task

What would happen if you changed these beliefs?

Hijacking Your Agenda

Are you able to recognize when other people’s time related demands conflict with your predetermined goals?   If you had clarity that allowed you to recognize this, what would it do for your ability to manage expectations?

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