Improving a Negative Economic Environment is Easier than Most Believe

The winners in any economic downturn belong to those who can create and innovative. This premise is based on the fact that in most organizations you never have enough resources. Resources such as money , labor, time and energy are usually in short supply.

That means you have to out think the competition. By using strategies like mind mapping created by Tony Buzan, organizations and individuals can out think their competition. Creating innovative projects to increase revenues, decrease costs and retool both human and fixed assets is easier to do if the ability to control your schedule and manage projects is formalized with award winning processes. The trouble with using the number one most un taped asset in organizations which is creativity and innovation begins with the fact that most creative projects never start nor end as scheduled. In addition most individuals in organizations are so busy being busy they rarely schedule time to become more creative and innovative.

Here is a prescription from a recent Learning Link newsletter from Priority Management that provides some tips to eliminate the procrastination of creative projects that can give you a competitive edge. "William James, known as the father of American psychology said there are just three rules to follow if you want to change your life

1. Start immediately
2. Do it flamboyantly
3. No exceptions

Well you may not want to change your life exactly but you may have thought of achieving a goal or just doing something differently in these tough economic times. When it comes to execution of creative ideas, many people procrastinate or fall victim to the "perpetually getting ready to do something syndrome" - a feeling that the time's just not right at the moment, or "I'll start next Monday, better still next month" and so on... Here are some tactics for getting things done now:

• If you do perceive that the starting task might be unpleasant then schedule it first (ie make it your 'A' priority) on your to-do list. It often turns out to be not that bad after all. (no exceptions)
• All journey's begin with a small step, so break down complex projects into small pieces that are manageable and schedule the first step today. (start immediately)
• Set a target date for completion. Go public-tell a colleague, friend or partner what you are doing and when you are going to do it. (do it flamboyantly)

Finally don't forget your biorhythms - schedule your toughest tasks during the periods when you have the most energy - that's usually the first part of the day or the weekend."

Food For Thought:

Recent pre and post studies of hundreds of Graduates from our Working Smart platform of programs show an increase in the essential skills of starting work on time and ending work on time to increase by 33% and 42% respectively.

Want more information on classes that can make you more creative and innovative Working Smart with Microsoft Outlook Working Smart with Lotus Notes