In this episode, the hosts discuss what happens when we fall off our planning system, how to face a flood of emails after vacation, and tools to get back on track. They also explore the concept of Schrodinger's system and the importance of consistency in systems. Join their Organizing Challenge to reduce clutter and start the new year fresh. Support the podcast on Patreon for continued content.
Approach your task manager without expectations after a few weeks and focus on what needs to be done today, recognizing that cleaning it up won't take as long as the initial setup
If it's been months or even a year since you last visited your task manager, assess if you want to keep the system, clean it up intentionally, and make changes to prevent future lapses
Deep dives
Visiting the Task Manager after a short break
If it has only been a couple of weeks since you last looked at your task manager, approach it without expectations. Focus on what needs to be done today and plan intentional time to clean it up. Recognize that it won't take as long as setting up the system initially.
Visiting the Task Manager after a longer break
If it has been months or even a year since you last visited your task manager, make an assessment of whether you want to keep the system or consider switching. Take intentional time to clean it up, knowing that checking off and deleting tasks may take a while. Analyze what kept you from using the system and make changes to prevent it from happening again.
Consistency is key
Consistency in using the task manager is important, but it's okay if you struggle with it. Choose the aspect of your system that is most important to you and put 80% of your attention on that. Focus on the work that supports your career, family, or personal goals. Systems can be flexible and tailored to your specific needs.
Embracing a growth mindset
Don't be too hard on yourself if you have fallen off your task manager. Embrace a growth mindset and believe that you can do hard things. Reframe negative emotions like fear, shame, disappointment, and frustration into confidence, courage, patience, and positive self-talk. Remember that consistency is a process and it's okay to make adjustments along the way.
We’re having so much fun talking about planning that we’re sticking with it another week! And this time, it’s all about what happens when we fall off the wagon.
How do you stand up with courage and strength and admit you’ve strayed from your system? How do you face the flood of email when you get back from a well-earned vacation? We’re digging into the tools and practices that will help you get back in the saddle and shake the shame of the struggle along the way!