Resource Management
Stay True To Your Priorities
In the business world, the 80/20 rule explains that 20% of efforts result in 80% of total output. When applying the rule to one’s personal life it means that 80% of values, memories, and accomplishments are gained from only 20% of activities. Yes, that means you could be wasting 80% of your resources (time, money, human capital, etc…) on things you don’t even recognize to be important!
So, what is hogging your resources and producing minimal reward… unplanned trips to the grocery store? electronics? fear of failure or success? lack of interest? procrastination? guilt? poor sleep habits? people pleasing? wishful thinking? over-commitment? miscommunication? outdated knowledge?
If you are a victim of the 80/20 rule, focus on improving your resource management habits. Outline what you want to do, what you ought to do, and what you must do. Then, determine what you can eliminate, modify, substitute, combine, or exchange. Remember, effective resource management is not a result of prioritizing your schedule and plans. Rather, it is gained by using a schedule and plan to stay true to your priorities!
To add confidence to your resource management decisions answer the question ‘Why?’ as you analyze your day. You may discover some tasks that align with your values, intrests, and needs are getting covered by rubbish. Recognizing why gives you permission to make a change for the better. Take back control of your resources.