How to Get Things Done Like the Pros You Admire

There you are, you’re ready to accomplish that long, sought-after goal but you can’t seem to find the time. Motivation can be a tricky thing, especially when it’s complicated by the sheer amount of distractions coming our way from every conceivable angle at any given moment. How on earth can you ever expect to get your “normal” obligations accomplished, let alone find the time to actually accomplish an extraordinary goal or two you have on your list? After all, there are other people out there “doing it”. Why can’t you?

As for motivation, it is fleeting. We generally understand that it either flows from within or is externally-driven. Either way, it is typically powered by the strength of our vision or the urgency of a situation. 

Suffice it to say, you can have all the motivation you need, but if you give in to distractions, you will eventually become frustrated (and consumed) by the devastating impact of distractions. In other words, distractions can kill motivation. 

So, if it is up to us to keep distractions to a minimum to fuel the motivation we need, what are we to do? How do we find the motivation we need to overcome the urge to give in to distractions that invariably rob us from accomplishing our goals?  For answers, I have come up with three tips that will put things into perspective. As a bonus, I have reached out to two highly-accomplished people I know and trust to gather their perspective. Use their advice in tandem with the tips below and you’ll be plugged into the most powerful source for getting things accomplished—your own motivation!

Attach a Reason to the Task

Nothing is more powerful than the reason you attach to your goals and aspirations. Some call it your “why”. Your reason is the engine to your vision or desire for achievement. Your reason must be compelling enough to fuel the motivation you need to have to consistently accomplish the tasks in spite of the inevitable distractions. 

Being motivated about a task doesn’t always mean you’re happy about doing it. It simply means you have the “power” to put distractions at bay and follow through to completion—consistently—to create momentum. Your accomplishments will inevitably lead to satisfaction and happiness, both of which have a sustaining effect on your ability to tap into your determination to repeat the process. 

Prioritize, Then Take Action

Taking a step back can provide some much-needed perspective on your goals. It can also overwhelm you. So, it’s wise to approach the accomplishment process realistically. The best way is to break the overall process down into bite-sized tasks, and then, prioritize. 

Once you prioritize your tasks, take consistent action (notice a developing trend?) to produce results you can sink your teeth into. Once you begin seeing evidence of your results, you’ll find that your motivation is a lot easier to tap into to continue producing even more results. 

Use the 15-Minute Rule

Finding time to accomplish a task, even if it’s routine, can sometimes be an arduous undertaking, especially if you look at the entirety of your desired goal. But if you can “break up” a task into manageable segments that can be accomplished in, say, fifteen-minute increments, then finding time should be less of an issue. 

Consistency is the number one fundamental aspect of accomplishment. Without it, achievement is nearly impossible. To produce the consistency—and motivation—required to accomplish your goals and objectives, you must do something related to your goal every-single-day. 

You see, our brains are wired in such a way as to form close associations, or familiarity, with what we do consistently. It only makes sense that, the more you do something, the better you become at doing that very thing. The amount of time you spend on a task in a given session is less important than the frequency with which you connect to the task. In other words, even a mere fifteen minutes every day matters more than an eight-hour day once a month. 

So, as you approach your next extraordinary goal, take the time to consider these tips along with those of my friends and colleagues below. You’ll be glad you did. And you’ll have a lot greater success in tapping into your own internal motivation source.

Perspectives

Colleen Riddle

Author, CPFT, and Young Living Gold Distributor

www.ColleenRiddle.com

Did you know that YOU are actually in charge of your attitude every day? Some days when I'm in a funk, or grumpy, I remind myself that I have the power to shift my energy and attitude at any time. I just have to decide. 

One great way to shift is by beginning the day with rituals. Things we do every morning actually set the tone for the way the rest of the day will likely go. So, I thought I’d share a few of the daily rituals that help prepare me for my day.

1.     Gratitude: Before I get out of bed, I think of ten things I am grateful for—from the warm cozy bed to the roof over my head and everything in between. Sounds simple, but simplicity can actually be quite profound.

2.    Personal Development/Meditation: I notice a huge difference in my attitude when I take the time to read or meditate. If you aren't a reader, there are great books you can listen to on audible. I love listening to books while I'm driving. Podcasts are another great option. One of my favorite ones is "The Quote of the Day." Most are no longer than ten minutes long and are a perfect way to program my outlook for the day.

3.     Practice Visualization: Visualization is huge for me because it reminds me of my "why," and motivates me to kick ass because I'm on a mission! You can even break it down and decide how you want your day to go by visualizing the things you’ll get accomplished. Have an important meeting? Visualize the way you want it to go! Seriously, this works. Give it a shot! 

Kirk Hendricks
Author, Advisor, and Awareness Advocate

I consider time as a construct of the human mind. There is only as much time as we create for ourselves to accomplish a task…or attain our goals, as some would say. This is why people find time to get as much done as they want, while others cannot find the time to do much of anything constructive. It is a truth that time is a concept of our conscious experience, and each of us has the power to create or destroy it, whichever we choose.

I personally, choose to wake up on the weekends a couple of hours before my family. It is my time to freely choose to do whatever I want, which I do. I also get up at 4:30 am every weekday to work out and meditate in order to begin each day on a positive note, which I also freely choose to do. I also take the time to observe, as in the manner in which I observe the moments I put into this text before I sat down to write my thoughts so that it flowed more easily when the opportunity arose. And yes, I chose to do that too.

There are those who embrace conventional wisdom concerning the concept of time, which certainly has its place when considering how you can leverage it to your best advantage. I believe that, once you find the time, you will appreciate both perspectives.

Until next time...

- G -

"I consider time as a construct of the human mind. Therefore, you have inherent power over it." 
~ Kirk Hendricks

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Check out the wise, knowledgeable, and often entertaining perspectives of Author Elisabeth Auld inside the editions of

 Gals in Blue.

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Check out our new affiliate partner, J. Jane, a fascinating blog of mentorship for, by, and between women.

j. jane 

-------------------------------------------------------------

Get your copy of Gary's best-selling novel 

Dream Operative, 

 NOW AVAILABLE 

on Audible.com!

FEAR Is a Thief is on Amazon.com 
and is NOW AVAILABLE on Audible.com too! This inspiring book is the first in a self-empowerment series that was written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life. 
Get your copy today at FEAR Is a Thief/Amazon.

Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com

Inside-Out

Over the years, I've written extensively on the subject of introspection and how, by taking a look at ourselves from the inside, we can begin to better understand what drives us, why we do certain things, and why we react the way we do under varying circumstances. 

In my writings, I have described some of the ways in which we can "go there" and explore our inner selves and reach a point where true introspection occurs.  I hope you've been able to experience the intimacy of gaining that perspective and getting to know yourself better by using some of the methods I've covered.  If you've missed those articles, I encourage you to peruse the archives to see what resonates with you. There's lots of great content available! 

Today, I'd like for us to consider an alternative method to gain a different perspective of ourselves - one that's often overlooked and unrecognized.  That perspective comes to us by way of other people and how they see us. 

The value of how others see you can sometimes be a tough pill to swallow.  Think "personal judgment". Yikes! It is especially tough to discover we're not as perfect as we may believe we are. Let's face it, our own self-acknowledged shortcomings are difficult enough to accept and expose our vulnerabilities to some extent.  Nonetheless, the outside perspective has value and merit as a source of insight into the various aspects of our persona when the ultimate goal is to gain complete introspection. 

In many businesses, the personnel system requires the supervisor and subordinate to meet in private to discuss the performance evaluation of the subordinate worker.  It can be an uncomfortable process for either party.  If conducted properly, however, the feedback process offers an external perspective on how the recipient is viewed by others.  Still, it can be tough to hear that, in spite of all the praises and accolades, there exists inevitable room for improvement. Everything discussed has the potential to play a role in helping to provide a useful perspective, which leads to introspect, and ultimately, to personal improvement and development.

No matter how hard we may try, seeing ourselves from an outside perspective provides an incomplete picture if we attempt to conduct the process alone.  We are said to have a "Johari Window", or a perspective that simply and effectively hides or disguises the truth about some part of our external selves, from our personal viewpoint or knowledge.  One of the four Johari Windows is that area known (and seen) by others but hidden from our own field of view.  It's this window that, if openly accepted for what it offers, can play a role in providing a more complete perspective of who we are as individuals. 

The ultimate goal of introspection is to improve the synergy and quality of our lives by getting to know ourselves on a deeper level. Consider taking an honest look at how you are perceived by others.  Ask a trusted friend to be honest with you about how you're viewed in varying situations and circumstances.  As uncomfortable as this may seem at first, it is one of the best methods to acquire a complete picture of your true self. Accept all of the feedback humbly (the good and the not-so-good) and be honest with yourself.  After all, just about anything can be changed, altered, or improved. 

Here's to an open window leading to a fresh new perspective and your personal growth. 
Take a deep breath!


Until next time...

- G -

"Knowing yourself is the beginning of all wisdom."

-----------------------

If you'd like to receive a notification anytime I publish a new blog (currently about once per month), 
visit my Facebook page: G. Gary Westfal, Author

Once there, click on "Connect to Introspection!" in the left column.  You'll then be subscribed and will receive a notification whenever I publish a new blog or provide updates to my books or appearances.  

If you like this post, please recommend it to others!
-----------------------

333

The Power of Equilibrium

"A powerful book that provides an interesting

 cross-section of three different points of view for 

the balance of body, mind, and spirit."

~ Amazon Reader Feedback

Get your copy of this insightful book

on Amazon.com TODAY!

Available Now!

***********

Step into the mind of Author Luc Vors.

"Keep producing things, great or small, and you will find that your 

creative mind will blossom with more and more ideas." 

***********

Check out the wise, knowledgeable, and often entertaining perspectives of Author Elisabeth Auld inside the editions of

 Gals in Blue.

************

Check out our new affiliate partner, J. Jane, a fascinating blog of mentorship for, by, and between women.

j. jane 

-------------------------------------------------------------

Get your copy of Gary's best-selling novel 

Dream Operative, 

 NOW AVAILABLE 

on Audible.com!

FEAR Is a Thief is on Amazon.com 
and is NOW AVAILABLE on Audible.com too! This inspiring book is the first in a self-empowerment series that was written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life. 
Get your copy today at FEAR Is a Thief/Amazon.

Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.

The Courage to Try

When you follow your convictions, people notice.  Things change. You change. Your path becomes clearer and your course begins to take shape.  As that happens, the seeds of your vision take hold and become rooted in those very convictions.  The decision to take the first step demonstrates your courage and is driven by the belief you have in yourself, your ideas, and your motivations.  The result is a personal transformation manifested by the courage to follow through and pursue your dreams. Don’t ever ignore that! 

In the previous edition of Introspection, I outlined five of the top ten limiting stories we tell ourselves. Each of these stories paints a narrative that puts us at a disadvantage and has the potential to outright derail any hope of achieving anything significant. I stressed how you don’t have to buy into any of that nonsense. In fact, that narrative robs you of the courage you need to step past negative self-talk and into action mode to make a clear difference in your life and the lives of those you care about most. 

I received some pretty interesting comments on that blog that have brought us back to take a closer look at the remaining five most used limiting narratives we tell ourselves. As we look at each of these together, I’d like you to think about an alternate perspective we are able to cast as we contrast the negative narrative with a more positive and empowering one.

Let’s get to it…

6. “I’m too old. The course of my life is destined to be what it is.”

This is one of the "oldest" excuse lines in the book. It is most commonly used when someone just does not want to take action to change their lot in life. Taking a closer look tells us that the age excuse is a sign of exasperation. You are never too old for positive change to take place in your life.  In fact, you have more of an advantage than you may realize. For example, age is more widely seen as an advantage where wisdom, knowledge, and experience are required. Wisdom arms us with the knowledge to ask for help when we need it, clarification when required, and courage to remain true to the convictions we hold dear. 

7. “I don’t have the talent or skills. Even if I try, I’ll probably fail.”

One of my dreams was to be a published writer.  I spent nearly three years writing my first manuscript.  I didn’t have any special talent or expertise, but I knew I wanted to be a writer so bad that I would do whatever it took to become just that. The candid truth is that we all start out with a clean slate. It’s true that some are more inclined to accelerate in a given skill more than others. But if you possess the will, you also possess the power to develop virtually any skill you set your intentions upon. The truest part of this specific limiting statement is that, yes, you will probably fail. In fact, you will most likely fail several times…before you ultimately succeed. But with each successive failure, you learn and develop your talents and skills to become the person you desire and to achieve the goals you set. 

8. “I’m not smart (talented, brave, handsome, pretty, or worthy…).”

The two most powerful words in the English language are “I am”. These two words, preceded by whatever follows them, defines you. The placement of the three-letter word “not” between the first two words and whatever follows has a destructive power so great it can destroy nations. This limiting phrase puts the wrong focus on what you are not rather than what you are capable of becoming. It also speaks to deficient self-esteem most likely derived by the fact that you have not yet stepped away from the shadow of comfort and familiarity. Change only comes when you demonstrate the courage to take action. Only then will your limiting self-talk transform from one of disadvantage to one supported by the inspiring notion of “I am.” 

9. “It takes money to make money. And I don’t have that kind of money.”

This false narrative implies insufficiency and lack from the start. It is backed by an even stronger declaration of “I don’t have…”. Let us first clarify the belief that “it takes money to make money”. This assertion is only partially true. If you have money you can indeed use that money to make more money. The sad truth is, most people don’t. The next truth is that you most likely have enough money right now to leverage it to start working for you to make even more money—the principles of which would require a completely different blog post and, most likely, an entire book to fully exploit. Let us give this limiting statement some credence on its merits with a caveat that removes the limitation. If it is true that it takes money to make money, then find a way to make enough extra money to put it to work. Or go out and find someone with money and bring your insight to help them make money. Chances are, you’ll win their confidence and begin making money for both of you. Then you will virtually eliminate the second part of this limiting statement because you will indeed “have that kind of money.” By the way, it doesn't take money to make money. It takes courage! Just ask the immigrant who arrived in this country with nothing but a dream and a pocket full of courage. 

10. “I can’t change because I always seem to find a way to mess things up.”

Our declarations define us. It is a universal law of nature that tells us to be careful what we ask, because we just may get it. If the above narrative comes anywhere close to the way you think, it's time to recalibrate your internal programming. Be courageous enough to recognize it, acknowledge it, and take a stand against it…right now! The fact is, you can change and you will change. Isn’t it better to change in the direction of your desires rather than to allow life to sweep you up in the current? Look, you will “mess up” from time to time. (Go back and read point number seven on failure.) Messing up should always be considered from the perspective of the value it provides—an indication that we are learning, growing, and changing. 

Ready to remove the limiting stories from your life? Need help doing that? Reach out to me. Leave a comment or connect with me. I can help you see things from a perspective of courage and empowerment that will help you discover your hidden strengths. Let’s find your personal breakthrough so you can operate with confidence in the lane of your intended purpose. 

Until next time…

~ G ~

“You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.” 
~ Cayla Mills

-----------------------

333

The Power of Equilibrium

"A powerful book that provides an interesting

 cross-section of three different points of view for 

the balance of body, mind, and spirit."

~ Amazon Reader Feedback

Get your copy of this insightful book

on Amazon.com TODAY!

Available Now!

***********

Step into the mind of Author Luc Vors.

"Keep producing things, great or small, and you will find that your 

creative mind will blossom with more and more ideas." 

***********

Check out the wise, knowledgeable, and often entertaining perspectives of Author Elisabeth Auld inside the editions of

 Gals in Blue.

************

Check out our new affiliate partner, J. Jane, a fascinating blog of mentorship for, by, and between women.

j. jane 

-------------------------------------------------------------

Get your copy of Gary's best-selling novel 

Dream Operative, 

 NOW AVAILABLE 

on Audible.com!

FEAR Is a Thief is on Amazon.com 
and is NOW AVAILABLE on Audible.com too! This inspiring book is the first in a self-empowerment series that was written to help people get past fear using five fundamental truths as a basis for understanding and taking action for a better life. 
Get your copy today at FEAR Is a Thief/Amazon.

Also be sure to check out: KEY HORIZON, the second novel in the G. Weston spy series. This thriller is receiving rave reviews across the spectrum and has captivated a new following of "spy-fi" readers. 

Order your copy of these exciting novels today at Amazon.com.