Wow.  Holidays are fast approaching – so my question is – Is your ‘to do’ list growing now that the holidays are just around the corner?  Well then, give yourself an energy boost and read this article by Dr. Oz (and me) on managing stress at work.

Here’s my tip:

Studies have shown that people will actually accomplish a task in the time allotted to them.  For example if someone said you have 10 hours to finish this report, people would work during that time, unproductively, unhappily – but it would get done. However if that deadline was to get that report finished in 1 hour or even a really crazy low time like 30 minutes or – believe it or not, people would still get it finished.

Have you witnessed this phenomenon in your life?

I was once at a hotel seminar and the leader gave us 5 minutes to go to up to our rooms, pack, and check out at the hotel front desk – and there were like 20 of us.  Results: We actually did it.  It stunned me.  It was like time stood still.

Often times we OVER-estimate how long stuff should take us to you.  My advice? Create your own mini deadlines with rewards at the end.  Say to yourself – I’m going to finish all my email correspondence in 20  minutes – then I can take an extra 30 minutes off at lunch or I can eat some chocolate or I will go to a movie tonight.  Anything that gets you motivated.  It is FUN and you will see results.

Here’s Dr. Oz’s advice:

While it would be a mistake for me to assume there’s only one way to work, I do think there are some traits and behaviors that can make time and energy management a whole lot easier. But here are three things you should consciously try to integrate into your workday if you haven’t already:
- Map your Day: Though you don’t have to stick to an exact schedule, you can get some stress relief if you can organize your tasks and not leave your day to total chance. Don’t work off the inbox…work off your plan for the day. (Only manage the inbox after you’ve done what you desire to do.)
- Break Often: Take a walk, have a bottle of water, clear your head. It’s all part of energy management. The few minutes you spend away from your desk will make you more efficient when you get back.
- Enlist Troops: We know that people are pretty stubborn when it comes to trying to accomplish goals on their own; they think it’s a sign of failure if they show weakness or an inability to do a job. But you’ll reduce stress (and save time) by asking for help when you need it.

What are your tips and advice?  Post them below for all of us to save time and create less stress in our lives and business.

All the best,

Stefanie

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