The Key to Priorities

In our series on getting ready for 2010, today's topic is priorities. Everybody thinks priorities is about listing activities according to importance, and that is true, but the most important part is not the list. It is not even the rank of importance of the list. All these are important, but without this one ingredient the list is worthless. What is this ingredient?

The ingredient is discipline. If you can't discipline yourself to follow through on your priorities, then why go through the trouble of making a list. Here are a couple of thoughts that should help with the discipline. First, Don't make your list so hard that it is almost impossible to follow. Start with some smaller steps and work your way into the more disciplined areas. Next, Realize the list of priorities is just that, a list. Don't make the list the goal, understand why this priority is important and what doing it will accomplish. It is a whole lot easier doing something that actually makes life easier or better. Lastly, Don't be so hard on yourself that if you slip up you quit. Give yourself some grace, just pick up and go again. A disciplined leader is a productive leader.

Comments

[Doug Martin]

So true.

[Julian and Charlotte Oliver]

very true. When lists are made that are almost impossible and can't be completed that feeling of failure will lead to nothing ever being accomplished. On the other hand if the list is "doable" that feeling of achievement leads to more accomplishments and more productivity. Perfect timing for this blog as now some are contemplating the new year and goals, lists and priorities for the upcoming year this is a great point to think on before putting into ink that penciled plan.

[Debra Crabtree]

good points, thanks