Random Observation/Comment #426: Realizing the value of time, as much as time itself, is priceless.
People are naturally very reactionary creatures with a narrow field of awareness (you can only hold so many priorities in your head at one time). This is why we respond to emails throughout the day when it’s easy to address a quick notification for something that can be easily done and checked off that list.
We are pushed and pulled by this constant barrage of information, so much so that we can’t process the bigger picture or ultimately the longer term goals that actually mean something. For example, when I write my diary covering the things I’ve learned and important progress I’ve made, sending an email never made it to that list.
Jason Womack’s getMomentum program helped me put this all into perspective. If you take the time to focus on something and use technology to help keep your field of awareness within the moment, there’s a lot of potential to actually be productive and make noticeable progression in your Most Important Things (MITs).
The most useful revelation for myself when following this advice was not some magical guide or handbook to solve all my problems, but rather a discipline and process flow to (metaphorically speaking):
- Evaluate the journey. Look at what you’ve done, where you are, and where you want to go. Evaluating the journey has a lot to do with knowing your self-worth. What skills do you have to offer? What don’t you want to do? What have you learned?
- Set the destination. If you’re trying to get to a constant state of happiness or level of success, you need to know at least the general direction you’re headed. It’s impossible to set a goal if you don’t even know your own values and mission statement.
- Plan the path. Once you can visualize where you want to be, then be your own project manager and set those important milestones and checkpoints. Hold yourself accountable and plan out how long it will take to get there realistically.
- Walk the path. Once you start walking, just keep on following your own signs and stay motivated. Steps 1 through 3 are all about getting the momentum – now you must keep the momentum and complete the project. Evaluate your path and adjust your plan as needed, but always move forward.
It’s all hard work and I believe Jason provides the practical advice and tangible network of peers to help reach your next level of success. I’ve not only become motivated by a strong community, but also honed my own routines and habits into one that provides a healthy balance of productivity and self-fulfillment in a clear and less stressful environment.
~See Lemons Get Momentum
