Once Again Answering the Question, How Do You Get So Much Done?

First, I'd like to say that I don't get nearly as much done as I used to, though I still follow the same practice. Chalk it up to old age slowing me down.

My biggest advice to anyone is, don't procrastinate. If you have something that needs doing, do it. Get it over with.

Long ago, I realized that I liked the feeling I got when I accomplished a task.

So I don't forget what needs to be done or what I want to do, I make lists. I jot down what needs to be done right away and in another column I write what needs to be done eventually.

For example, what's been on my list for today and tomorrow, is write a program design. I've actually got it almost done--just waiting for more information for the people who want it.

I've done everything I wrote yesterday except start a newsletter that I need to work on.

On the side of tasks that need to be done--but not in any big hurry is writing blog posts for my upcoming blog tour for my next Rocky Bluff P.D. book. I have all the hosts lined up and two for the next to last day.

I've promised to write a hand-out about Income Tax deductions for writers for the next PSWA conference that doesn't happen until July. I'll probably work on it while doing my own income tax.

And I'm going to be doing the PSWA newsletter again, so will start on that fairly soon. Also on my list.

While all this is going on, I'll be working on my next book in the Deputy Tempe Crabtree series.

By evening, I'm not good for any mental work and usually watch a movie.

During the week, I also do the usual things like laundry, cooking, grocery shopping.

And once in awhile, hubby and I take off to see a movie in the theater and lunch out.

As you can see, I don't really have a mysterious formula--I just do it.

Marilyn


Comments

Lorna Collins - said…
Since I retired, I'm not getting nearly as much done as I did when I was working. But I know what you are saying about accomplishments. At the end of each day, I ask myself, "What did I get done today?" I find I need to be able to answer with something substantial.
Terry Shames said…
Marilyn, I needed this reminder today! I sort of unraveled last night at all the things I need to do NOW.

I have several blogs to write--usually not an issue but for some reason I was totally blank. Anything I tried to write looked stupid. But I'm like you...get it done! So I sat down and jotted down one idea after another no matter how far-fetched and then made myself write at least a couple of paragraphs on each. Finally got back in the saddle.

The bottom line is, procrastination is not your friend.
Marilyn,
Nike's slogan: Just Do It! Like you, I make lists for everything and I try my best not to procrastinate. I'm a planner and a plotter.
I used to get extremely frustrated when I'd scheduled to do something and "life" got in the way of my accomplishing it but I "try" not to do that anymore. I have to laugh because I suspect that God is trying his best to teach me patience and flexibility. :)
Anonymous said…
Finally, I know your secret, Marilyn.
Don't procrastinate and get 'er done. A radical plan for sure, but I really need to try it. I have SO much stuff piled up! I'm going to do it, but just thinking about it makes me tired. I'm going to take a nap before I start.
Anonymous said…
Finally, I know your secret, Marilyn.
Don't procrastinate and get 'er done. A radical plan for sure, but I really need to try it. I have SO much stuff piled up! I'm going to do it, but just thinking about it makes me tired. I'm going to take a nap before I start.
Marilyn,
I've read your list before and have one thing to say to you: you continue to amaze me!!
I have to confess that I start off in the a.m. like a house afire and really poop out by late afternoon. And if I take off, like today, I don't get back to doing much.
Billie Johnson said…
Marilyn, you always amaze me with the scope and volume of things you get done. You are my inspiration...and have been for a very long time!

Billie
M.M. Gornell said…
Oh Marilyn, you make it sound so easy! You remain my inspiration and guiding light, and have gotten me going for the day! Keep doing what you do so well...

Madeline
Marja said…
LOL You're sooo much more organized than I am. Good for you, and I need to follow your example.
Marja McGraw
I still think you accomplish an amazing amount of things all at once. I never procrastinate, but sometimes there are just not enough hours in the day. We live remotely in the Colorado mountains, so it requires either a 20 mile RT or, more often, an 80 mile RT just to keep appointments or do any serious shopping. By then, I am totally zonked. Just accept it, you are amazing and I admire you!
I no longer clean house, pay daughter and grand-daughter to do it. I'm so slow now, if I still had to do it, nothing else would get done. And on Sundays I teach Sunday School, attend church, got out to eat with family, and then do nothing work wise the rest of the day.

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