Some days you may feel that things are getting out of control in your life and your business. The feeling may stem from your need to keep on top of everything. Or it may be that there is so much going on that you really can’t manage it all, which is not at all surprising in today’s always-on world. Thanks to the Internet, social media, and mobile devices, keeping in touch and on top of industry changes, whether new products, new massage treatment protocols, or the latest in skin sun protection, can keep you busy 24/7.
Fortunately, there are ways to keep things under control so that you feel less pressured and are in a better frame of mind should an emergency presents a significant personal or business challenge.
Jon Westenburg, who describes himself as a ‘startup mentor,’ addresses this topic of taking control in “How To Take Control of Your Life, Your Soul, and Your Business.” His chief recommendation is “wake up.” You can’t control your life if you aren’t aware of what’s happening around you. You need to live consciously and be aware of what is exerting control over your life. Only then can you retake control.
There’s more that you need to do to be sure you have control over your life and, in turn, your work.
Do it your way
You don’t have to follow everyone else’s rules all the time. Maybe you have a more unconventional way of looking at things, resulting in a unique way of solving a problem. Follow your instincts to take charge of what’s happening in and around you.
Learn to say no
You can’t control your life and your work if you are constantly making yourself available to others' demands. Be very protective of your time and your resources. When someone asks you to do something when you feel under pressure, ask yourself if you have the time and what the benefit will be. If you want to help out but can’t take on anymore, try to find someone else to step in.
Learn from others
With new challenges, you may need new solutions. Learn from others, too. You don’t have to figure it all out on your own—Check-in with other professionals on social media. Ask people in the industry how they cope with things when it all seems to be too much. Read articles. Find resources that can provide helpful ideas and new ways to look at things.
Don’t try to do it all at once
Contrary to conventional wisdom, we don’t multitask successfully. Some argue that when you shift focus from one thing to another quickly, you actually take more time to get things done. The key is to stay with one thing and finish it. Then move on to the next project.
These are just some ways to make sure you are in the driver’s seat regarding your life and work. Stay focused and stay grounded in the principles that guide you. When you do, you’ll always be in control.