Be Action Oriented

By Bill Kerzman, Director, PATH Family Institute

            This is a much easier process for “morning people” or those who are ready to jump right into their day; but even if this is not you, be prepared to take action as soon as you are ready.  However, DO NOT let activity be confused with accomplishment!  Just because you have made great plans, held a number of conversations or meetings, or been to a number of places (literally or on-line) doesn’t mean things got done.  You must be able to see results from these activities.

            There is something called the 80/20 rule which has many applications.  In many settings, 20% of the people account for 80% of the work.  In other settings, 20% of your activities will account for 80% of your results.  Try hard to concentrate your energies on to this top 20%! 

·        “Your success in life and work will be determined by the kinds of habits you develop over time.” Brian Tracy. Being action oriented is really a habit of setting priorities, overcoming procrastination and accomplishing your next most- important task; this is both a mental and physical skill.  It is a habit that can be learned through practice and repetition, over and over again. 

·        Completion of important tasks can lead to the release of endorphins in your brain.  These endorphins can give you a natural rush that leads to feelings of confidence, positivity, and creativity.

·        You can actually develop a “positive addiction” to these endorphins!  You will appreciate the clarity, confidence and competence you feel when these are triggered.  You will begin to organize your life in such a way that you are starting and completing ever more important tasks and projects.  This powerful task management can be seen in many successful foster parents, mentors and workers.

·        One of the worst uses of time is to do something very well that need not be done at all.  Stephen covey, in his book, The 7 Habits of Highly Successful People says, “Before you begin scrambling up the ladder of success, make sure it is leaning against the right building.”