Do you need to think inside or outside the box?
A phrase that is used a lot in business is “Think outside the box.” The phrase is usually meant to encourage creative problem solving. While I’m all for using creativity to solve problems in business, the trouble can come when you think you need to come up with new ideas all the time. The “box” is another way of saying that there are established habits and procedures. Sometimes, it is easier to work inside the box with something that is already established, as opposed to creating something new.
You can do this by looking at the practices that got you where you are in your business and the ones that are holding you and your employees back. Do you need to do more of one and less of another? Or do you need to focus on a particular practice more than another?
Here are some ways to improve daily practices:
Make a To-Do List
Nothing organizes your day better than noting and tracking all the things you need to do. This is a habit that is good for individuals at all levels of an organization. Once all the tasks that need to be done are written down, they can be prioritized. As one task is completed, cross it off and move on to the next one. Having a list helps prevent last-minute rushes.
Avoid interruptions
Give yourself and your employees permission not to answer the phone every time it rings, and not to respond to every email the moment it comes in. Schedule time for calls (if possible), emails, and social media. Having a set time to make/take calls and check emails and social media can help keep you and your employees from getting sidetracked with unexpected or unnecessary conversations and scrolling.
Work with purpose
Don’t just ask what is going wrong or right. Instead, ask, “What inspires you to do your best every day?” Asking yourself this question will help both you and your employees to be more motivated to do your/their best work as opposed to merely completing tasks. In addition, encourage everyone to think about the big picture—what they can contribute, how they can make a difference, as opposed to just doing their job.
Focus on what can be controlled
Many factors are beyond anyone’s control, such as suppliers, the weather, traffic, etc. Encourage everyone to stick to what can be controlled, like time management or training. Focusing on what can be controlled will help both you and your employees to be more productive.
You don’t have to reinvent the wheel when the path gets difficult, just clear out what is in the way so that you and your employees can do your/their best work.
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