Maybe You’re Doing It At the Wrong Time

You can’t get to that task.

Not today.

In fact, it never seems to get done.

Maybe you’re doing it wrong.

Or perhaps, you’re just doing it at the wrong time.

Right Task, Wrong Time

You always seem to run out of time when it comes to certain things.

Maybe it’s a task that has haunted your todo list for days or months.

Or perhaps, it’s a habit that you can’t seem to get off the ground.

Some tasks just don’t seem to get done no matter how hard you try.

It’s not just about fitting tough tasks into your schedule,

but about finding the “right time” to do them.

When this happens, you may need to look at a different time to do them.

Time For a Change Up

What tasks could you be more effective at by changing the time of day that you do them?

Maybe it’s going to the gym. Or starting that new project. Or writing your book.

Here are few tips to help you get that task done by changing the time:

1. Shift the Time – I am a big advocate of time shifting. Changing the time that you do a particular task. This can be a powerful tactic whether you use it on your workouts, your commute, or even the time you spend with your family.
2. Find a Unique Time – You may need to look for a unique time to do that task. If you want to read more, but it just isn’t happening, find a unique time to fit in your reading. Maybe before breakfast in the morning, or even during lunch. Or get creative and listen to audio books during your commute.
3. Schedule a Time – Tough tasks need an appointed time. That will make sure that they get their due. Schedule appointments for tough tasks on your calendar when you know that you can dedicate time to them.
4. Match the Task to Your Energy Level – There are good times and bad times to do high energy tasks. Do those tasks that require high effort when you have the get-up-and-go. Do that workout first thing in the morning, instead of after work when you are tired.
5. Do It At the Same Time As Something Else – No, I am not talking about multi-tasking here. Rather, I am referring to getting to hard tasks by chaining them to other tasks. If you never get around to reviewing your calendar, chain it to something you do everyday, such as checking your email/voicemail.

Change the Time, Change the Results

Whatever you’re not getting done, maybe it’s time to look at when you are trying to do it.

Changing when you are doing things, can greatly impact your ability to get them done.

Give your tough tasks a change-up by finding the right time to do them.

Question: Which of your tasks need a time change?