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Archive for April, 2009

Apr 19

Time Management Out, Energy Management In

Recently, my clients have expressed a desire to implement more effective time management and organizational habits.  When I probe deeper, however, it is not that these individuals lack information or skill on how to create and manage organizational systems. In fact, these individuals are quite savvy in organizing themselves and others to get things done across 95% of their life dimensions.  So, what is at the root of this phenomenon that capable, competent individuals are struggling to feel “on top” of their physical space and mental game, organizationally speaking? 

It seems the answer is trifold.  1.) First, we face fatigue from the 24/7 flow of information that buries our multiple accounts, gadgets, and mailboxes. It’s inevitable to always feel behind, given the multiple channels of information awaiting us on all doorsteps  2.) Second,  in this increasingly social networked society, we feel pressure to participate and engage, whether it be through Linked In, Facebook, Twitter or own personal blog.  3.) Given this natural tendency between feeling pulled to respond to our inboxes and pushed to engage and participate in networked communities,  it’s inevitable that we will continue to put off some emails and paperwork that is anxiety-producing, unexciting or complex; and with so much to do in a day, it’s easier to keep putting it off than dealing with it.

So, given this new reality, how does one “get your organizational game” on?  

It’s about managing your energy, not your time.  Thanks to Tony Schwartz and The Energy Project, there is a whole new science around how to effectively manage your energy, so that you can be more engaged and productive in your life.   While David Allen’s tips and systems are useful and relevant, they require a great deal of discipline and list making at multiple levels, which can feel overwhelming at times.  Managing energy, however, feels approachable.  SO, here are some ideas to get you started.

Self Audit.  First, it’s important to take a close look at what areas of your life that you’re not feeling organizationally together. Acknowledging it is the first step to dealing with it! What is it about this particular pile or set of messages that feels overwhelming or uninviting for you?  How long have you been wanting to do something about it? What is really at the root of the matter for you? 

Create Rituals. Whatever it is you’re wanting to devote more time for, whether it be filing, working out, or managing your finances, it requires that you make the activity habitual. In other words, if you have to “think a lot” to get yourself to do it, you will rarely make it happen.   So, ask yourself, what will make this “chore” fun, rejuvenating or easy?  Is it listening to music? Is it going to a charming coffee shop with your laptop? Is it joining a gym near work?  Is it buying colorful folders and a label maker? 

Take breaks. Research shows that we work best in 90 minute segments.  So if you’re wondering why you’re feeling burnt out after 4 hours at the computer straight, this may explain it. Try and get out of the office for a lunch or drink break, at least once a day. Fresh air always puts things in perspective!  In addition, you may want to carve out one day a week, when you take a “Sabbath” and rest from all email and computer activity.  This requires discipline, but may be a great way to reenergize for another week gazing at the computer screen.

Take Care of Yourself Physically. Research shows over and over again, that most of us need 7-8 hours of sleep to function effectively.  (I actually had to create a ritual around going to sleep, in order to managing my energy better. For me, this means turning off the TV by 9:30 pm and crawling into bed at 10:00 p.m. to read, which has me feeling tired for sleep by 10:30 p.m.) Avoid sugar and too much caffeine; Eat regular, nutritious meals spaced throughout the day to maintain your energy. 

Enlist Support.  Old habits die hard. If you really want to make a change, let people in your life know. Ask for their support to keep you on track. Find a buddy that has a similar goal, so you can lean on each other. (Or work with a coach to make it happen!)

So, what area of your life have you been avoiding? How can managing your energy support you in making it more approachable to deal with on a regular basis? Would a ritual support you? Who in your life could support you in making a change?

Apr 11

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Career Transition through Small Experiments

One might assume that career change is about knowing what you want to do next.  It’s seen as an intellectual, “inside-out” process, whereby our thoughts and knowledge guide our actions.  I am currently reading INSEAD professor, Hermania Ibarra’s book, Working Identity, and realizing that the process of shifting working identity and career is actually more of an “outside-in” process.  

Human beings are complex. For most individuals, the current (or most recent) job is merely a reflection of a few dimensions, interests and skill sets.  We are constantly shifting and changing our assumptions and goals as we go about having new experiences. Whether you ponder opening a small B&B, running for political office, writing a novel, or slowing down to work in a bookstore, chances are you have likely thought about an alternative life.

How many of us, however, actively test out these “pipe” dreams, which excite and scare us at the same time?  The idea behind Working Identity is that small experiments enable us to not only know with greater assurance, but also enable us to begin the process of changing our identity and persona.  

So what does it mean to “experiment” with a new career direction? It could mean volunteering with an organization, attending a conference, joining a new industry association, taking related coursework, shadowing someone for a day, or even going on a “vocation vacation.”  Whatever the “experiment,” it should enable you to try this new “persona” on for fit.  It also enables one to see if this is a path more suited to a hobby or avocation than a full time career.  

Another thing to keep in mind is that this process takes time.   The process may take several years and a number of experiments to shift into a new career. It requires taking new actions, making new connections and integrating these experiences to decide whether the “shoe” really fits.  

Whether you are personally going through a career transition or know someone else who is, encourage them to do the following:

1.) Craft small experiments to test out desired path
2.) Make new connections/networks
3.) Start to rework your personal identity/story (e.g., your elevator pitch)
4.) Accept that there may be a long period of uncertainty

Apr 3

About Coaching

What is Coaching?
Good coaching is both a warm hug and a firm kick in the rear end.  The “warm hug” is the aspect of coaching that enables individuals to feel supported and heard in a profound way.  The “hug” facilitates individuals discovering their own unique answers and solutions.  The “firm kick” is the aspect of coaching that supports individuals in being accountable to the goals they set out to achieve.  It also challenges individuals’ assumptions and enables individuals to hear and see themselves from a different vantage point. 

In essence, coaching is about being in a supportive conversation for individuals to gain insight, explore new possibilities, and create positive and desired results.  

How would you Distinguish Coaching from Therapy?
Coaching looks to view individuals from a standpoint of healthy, whole and able.  Distinct from therapy, coaching spends little energy on personal history and past.  Coaching focuses on individual’s potential and paths and experiments toward realizing potential.  In contrast to therapy, most coaching engagements begin with specific goals in mind. (Of course, these aims can and often do evolve once the client engagement begins, which is natural and encouraged as part of the discovery process.)  In contrast to many types of therapy, a coach may offer an assignment or suggestion for the client to consider.

When is Coaching most Valuable?
Coaching is most valuable to individuals when they are committed to the creation of something new in their lives.  Whether an individual wants to explore a new career path, get a promotion, find balance between motherhood and career aspirations, improve  relationships and/or gain more confidence, coaching can support individuals to move along the path with greater clarity and better results.