Sunday, January 13, 2013

Time Tamers Giveaway!

Happy 2013, Dahlin's!

Can you believe we are already full steam ahead in the 13th year of the new millennium? In the words of that ageless iconic diva, Cher, "If I Could Turn Back Time" boy, would I! (For those of you who know me personally, you are also aware this happens to be my favorite karaoke tune to butcher...) 2012 was a delightful year for our little family, filled with a bounty of blessings that included nationwide travel, career moves and quality time spent with those we treasure the most. Even though I cherish those moments, I am a bit regretful for not using my time more wisely. Enter my one and only New Year's Resolution: "Practice Effective Time Management." As you know, time is our most precious non-renewable resource; a resource that is never guaranteed. The goal of time management will ideally effect both my personal and professional productivity- an outcome that will hopefully enrich my life and those close to me. The promise of the New Year is ours to keep; may these time taming tips help you AND me reach our goals and keep our promises!
  • Dare to Disconnect: Oh, technology- you teasing temptress you! With access to Facebook, Twitter, and that addicting hub of "PINspiration" all in the palm of our hand, no wonder we can't get anything done! Say syonara to social media distractions and turn off the cell, close out IM, log out of Facebook until the deed is done. Your employer, your mate, and your to-do list will all appreciate your undivided attention.

  • Just Say No: This tiny two letter interjection can be one of the hardest words to muster for many of us. Learn to say "no" to non-essential tasks; actions or appointments that are not beneficial to your desired end result. Your girlfriends may be grumble, your co-workers may complain but sometimes "no" is the way to go!

  • Delegate, Not Dictate: Familiar with old adage "if you want something done right, do it yourself?" Much like beauty, this notion is in the eye of the beholder. Break larger, more complicated tasks into smaller, easily achievable tasks that you feel comfortable in delegating. Ask for help- recognizing talents in the individuals who will help you. Once the task is delegated, walk away and let them own it!  You will ultimately be the one to piece the project together, assuring quality and standards. Don't forget to applaud and praise all involved!

  • Cushion the Clock: One thing this slow Southern gal has learned from big city livin' is that everything takes longer than expected. Life loves to throw us curve balls- everything from traffic, to flat tires, to sick babies put us behind schedule. A 30 minute buffer zone added to all appointments or events may be just what you need so you're not tardy for the party! Here at our house, we call this "SGT" or Sorority Girl Time - a term my Zeta loving husband is very familiar with. Best part about this tip is you are either on time or early; winning!

  • Gimme a Break: Do visions of a Kit Kat bar or Nell Carter dance through your heads with this time taming tip? A common misconception about getting things done is to constantly keep on your grind- don't stop until the task is done! Step away from a project; go for a walk, make a phone call, become motivated by a change of scenery. I will take a stroll around the neighborhood with my voice notes ready to record as the lighting bolt of inspiration can strike anywhere, anytime!

  • Morning, Noon or Night: Identify the time of day you are most productive. For this one, my hive is buzzing between 4:00pm and 7:00pm. During that time, this busy bee is writing proposals, generating ideas, and responding to emails. Your period of productivity may be just as the sunrises or as the moon begins the peak out from the clouds. Keep this task time in mind when scheduling appointments and planning out your weekly duties.

To get you on track this New Year, we'd like to send one of our faithful followers a brand-new Lilly Pulitzer 2013 - 2014 Monthly Planner! Jot down your to-do lists, appointments and contacts in this joyful binder. We will randomly select one follower on January 31st, 2013 and you will be notified via email. Shipping costs are included!

With my focus on time management this year, I look forward to bestowing a bevy of blogs on my dedicated divas! As always, we'd love to hear from you and your wishes for "From Blushing Bride to Domestic Diva!"

Best wishes and blessings this New Year and Always,

SDT