Can Freedom Really Be This Simple?

 
Have you ever put something in the oven, only to get distracted and end up overcooking it?

I used to do it all the time -- especially once I started my business.  In the oven went dinner, then I was off to check emails or write.

An hour later there was a burning smell (and "yes", baking potatoes CAN explode in your oven!).  

Then I discovered the freedom that a simple timer could bring.  Set it, off to do whatever and come back when it beeps.

I employ the same principle in my business using a Polder Digital Timer (it's the visual of digital "sand" that makes this far and above other timers):

• Love (or not-so-much) writing? Give yourself X time to get the writing done, set your timer and GO!
• Coaching? Set your timer for the call time -- when it beeps, call's over. This keeps you on track with your day and helps you with boundaries.
• Spending too much time, or not enough, on Twitter, Facebook and Linked In? Set your timer. . .
• Email? Set your timer. . .

My timer allows me to easily split my day into chunks, knowing that the timer gives me the freedom to completely focus on a task while staying on track with my day.  After all, it's been said that "work expands to fill the time allotted".

It's such a huge benefit to me, that it's been a standard gift I send out to clients for years. 

Try it. . .you may be surprised at the effect it has on your productivity. . .and your sanity.  :-)

  

Comments

[Amy Bleser]

I have used a timer with my kids for years for transitions, homework, reading and much more! But I have never made the transition into using it in my own business! Fantastic idea! I especially like using it for writing. Thanks!

[Sandra Martini]

Hey Amy,

Thanks for commenting! Isn't it amazing how many ways the standard "kitchen" timer can be used?

It's all about optimizing and repurposing the tools we have. :-)

With abundance,

Sandy :-)

[Lily]

How timely this post is, Sandra.

A few days ago I was wondering if I needed to buy a timer to help me stop wasting time on activities that, well, let's say, I got lost in. It's so easy to let time slip away with the internet and all the bright, shiny objects of distraction.

Thank for this reminder. I am going out to buy my timer.

Lily

[Sandra Martini]

Hi Lily,

You're SO right...it's amazingly easy to get distracted -- especially working online.

My timer saves me daily. :-)

Enjoy yours and remember, it takes about 3 weeks to form a new habit and doing/using consistently.

With abundance,

Sandy :-)

[Denise Wakeman]

Great idea. I'm constantly going down rabbit trails. I've tried online timers, but forget to set them. I wonder if a physical timer sitting in front of me would help?

thanks for the tip...blog on!

[Oma Edoja]

Great idea!

I use my mobile phone alarm, with a very shrill ring tone! Shocks me back to the present!

[Sandra Martini]

Hi Oma,

EEK! That sound definitely would shock you back to the present. :-)

I like the digital sand on the Polder...makes me think of an hourglass.

Thanks for commenting,

Sandy :-)