Don't confuse activity with accomplishment

When working towards a goal there are always certain tasks that are hard to do.  It might getting outside to run or going to class when you are supposed to.  It could be getting up earlier to read, study, and plan your day out. 
 
For kids, it might be getting your homework done on time or preparing for a big project that is almost due.
 
Goal achievement is hard work!  We never want to confuse simply being busy with accomplishing important tasks. 
 
Most people “major in minor things”.  They are busy all day long doing tasks that have no real value or get them closer to the goals they have set for themselves.  Or they procrastinate doing the important things because they know they will be difficult.  Don’t let this be you! 
 
The golden rule in business is, “I must do the most productive thing possible at every given moment.” 
 
What are your top goals?  What do you need to do every day to move you closer to achieving them?
 
Constantly evaluate your tasks and plan for the day.  Are there tasks that could be delegated to someone else?  Is what I am doing right now important or am I procrastinating doing something more valuable? 
 
These are tough questions to ask but they separate winners from whiners!!!
 
Here are a few tips to having very productive days that are filled with progress:
 
1. Do the hardest things first!  When you tackle the toughest tasks early then you will feel great about yourself and you have the rest of the day to look forward to doing more enjoyable things.
 
2. Have an A-B-C task list.  Rate your tasks for the day A-B-C and do all the “A” tasks first. Never do a “B” task when an “A” task is unfinished and you can work on it.
 
3. Celebrate successful days.  Reward yourself for making good choices and doing hard work.  Make the reward fitting to the day you have had or the jobs you completed.  Rewards are fun so never forget them!!! 

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