This post gives 7 tips on how to structure a theme. I borrowed the idea from the author of Chasing Failure. In addition to accelerating my focus and output, I have more joy. Read on to uncover how creating a theme can benefit you too.
7 Tips
Break your work into categories.
Regardless of what you do, the work can be compartmentalized. Once you analyze the components, you'll be able to lump the activities into categories. In fact, your job description might already contain headings for different responsibilities.
Assign a theme to each day.
The themes are based around your work or special projects. Suppose you home school. Each day could focus on a subject, even if you have different age groups. Monday, for example, could be Reading Day. My themes are as follows: Spiritual Development, Content Creation, Product, Partnerships, Marketing & Communications, and Professional Development.
Type your list of themes and post them in your office.
Until you get into a groove, you'll need a reminder close by. You can also list them on your mobile phone (install the notepad app).
Compose a to do list that relates to the theme.
My daily to-do-list contains items specific to the focus of that day. For example, Monday is spiritual development. So, I read materials, prepare outlines for blog posts, articles, etc. In essence, I'm killing two birds with one stone because each activity relates to content creation.
Complete the assignments related to the theme.
Do not stray from the theme. If your theme is Marketing, do Marketing not Recruitment. In fact, once you get into a groove you will not want to entertain distractions. It makes your workload easier to manage.
Review your progress daily.
At the end of the day, check off your accomplishments. Add items that were not completed to next week's list.
Include a day for professional and/or spiritual development
Both increase your effectiveness in the other areas. For example, if one your themes is partnerships, use professional development day to read business books and articles about successful partnerships.
Write to Stephanie Harbin at sdharbin@yahoo.com
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