Just saying the word can instantly make you feel better as we shake off any ill feelings winter has left us with and look forward to warmer and longer days.
However, the change in season can feel like a two-edged sword to business owners because while it provides us with an opportunity to refresh and set goals, at the same time the end of the calendar year feels all too close for comfort.
Fortunately for you, I have some tips for a little Spring clean that will help you regain some of your time, so it doesn’t always feel like you’re flying by the seat of your pants with back to back meetings, or on calls.
So, let’s free up some time for creativity and getting back to working on your business, rather than in your business, with these Spring cleaning tips:
1. What can you remove from your calendar?
Sometimes your schedule can become so crammed, that you find yourself busy with tasks and commitments that upon reflection, don’t serve your bigger goals. So the first spring cleaning task is to identify stuff that needs to be eliminated from your calendar.
Ask yourself the question – is this supporting my goals – and if not, out it goes.
2. What’s on your calendar that can be automated?
Technology is both a blessing and a curse. But we may as well use the blessing part to our advantage. Explore opportunities to automate tasks to free up valuable time and mental energy. And while this may involve some time and cost to set up initially, it will save both in the long run.
3. What’s something that should be delegated but isn’t?
It’s sometimes hard to let go of things, but you need to recognise the value of your time and pass off tasks that cost you more time than what they’re worth. For example, invoicing, accounting, marketing, customer service, etc. are all important jobs, but can they be effectively and efficiently done by someone else?
4. Is there anything on your calendar that isn’t urgent and important?
We often mistake urgent for important. So while there may be a time constraint on, for example, a meeting, or tasks, ask yourself – are these also important – and if not, consider rescheduling or delegating.
5. Can any important meetings be 50% shorter?
Your time is precious, and a meeting can still be effective and lose no substance or outcome if cut down to half the time. Ensure there is an agenda and that it is adhered to. Set a time limit, and state that is your maximum commitment.
6. Can you get off the computer more?
Schedule time to step away from the screen, for your physical and mental health, but also as a chance to engage in the real world – where you can nourish your creativity and regain your clarity. It’s also important to talk face-to-face with your staff and customers.
7. How can you make time for fun?
Time with friends and family or engaging in hobbies and activities you enjoy is vital to your health and well-being. You’ll be a better person, and consequently, a better leader, if you make time for fun.
So there you have it, time for a Spring clean, which you may find, might put a new spring in your step.