We have been posting a series of Take Command videos on YouTube to highlight the importance of being in charge of what we say and do. Although each “take command” topic (work, home life, and relationships) requires different strategies, there are some overlapping points that can be applied across all areas, and I share these below:
- Set clear goals: Defining clear and specific goals is important for taking command of any aspect of our lives. Goals help us be intentional by staying focused on our efforts and working more efficiently towards achieving them.
- Prioritize tasks: Identifying and tackling the most important and urgent tasks first is critical for staying productive and on track. Our team members and family members will come to rely on us more! This enhances our reputation, builds our personal brand, and we become individual contributors that can influence positive outcomes to the benefit of others. For example, leaving water in the sink after dinner makes cleaning up easier. Leaving dirty plates overnight makes cleaning them harder to do.
- Manage time effectively: Managing our time effectively is essential to our productivity and success in any area of our lives. Structuring our day, setting realistic deadlines, and building in time for breaks and rest help us avoid burnout and stay focused. Often, we see the value of doing this formally at work and do not place as much value on time management in relationships and our home lives. Being punctual for a coffee date with a friend or getting the yard work started and completed before visitors come enhances our reputation and builds trust.
- Communicate effectively: Effective communication is crucial in any aspect of our lives. Listening actively and communicating clearly and effectively help us build trust, foster collaborative relationships, and achieve our goals. In our teams, this means asking questions and listening for clarity and understanding. At home, listening attentively and asking questions encourages dialogue and allows for collaboration to take place. Being intentional about communication is vital. Are you the friend that only talks about yourself, or do you take the time to listen? At home, are you collaborative and open to friendly dialogue, or is it a constant argument and uphill struggle to get the children to contribute around the home?
- Take ownership: Approaching our tasks with a sense of ownership and responsibility is key to our success. Being proactive in seeking out opportunities to learn and grow, taking pride in our work, and delivering it to the best of our ability are all important factors. Another way to frame this is to leave it better than how you found it! When leaving an office or shared workspace, ensure that the chairs are placed correctly and the whiteboard is erased. When returning home after spending time with guests, organize the grill, and neatly pack away outside cushions. Often, leaving things for later can cause frustration for others who come after us or leave us waking up in an untidy home, causing us to start the day feeling frustrated.
- Practice self-care: Prioritizing our physical and mental health is crucial for our overall well-being. Taking breaks, practicing relaxation techniques, and engaging in hobbies and activities that bring us joy and fulfillment help reduce stress and increase our happiness.
By applying these overlapping points across all aspects of our lives, we can take command of our lives and achieve greater success and satisfaction. With less stress, fewer altercations, and more time to enjoy with friends and loved ones, taking command of our lives can lead to a happier and more fulfilling life.