Most people spend their life running from fire to fire. Even when they have their day all planned out, someone shows up and places a dumpster fire at your feet, effectively stealing time out of your day. We challenged Elaine to take control of her time and space and stop the hijackers before they started.
Elaine: "Oh no! There’s been a hijacking. I’m so behind on my work today."
She seemed a bit frazzled when I walked in the door.
"I have this client who always calls me for these last-minute requests. I’ve planned my day to take care of certain things, and my time gets hijacked.”
“That sounds like the right word for it. What was so urgent?" I inquired.
"I had to update the pricing on their website," she replied.
"They probably knew about the price changes long before they called you today. They just made it urgent for you," I pointed out.
"You’re so right. I never thought about it like that," she said, agreeing with me.
HIT THE SPACEBAR: Elaine needed to create space.
"You need to stay in control and decide how you want to operate. Because what you’re giving them right now is 'Elaine on demand,' which means they’re choosing how you’re spending your time. That may work for them, but it’s clearly not working for you. Start creating a process for how you want to work and communicate it to them. And now, if they have a plan, you get to be part of it on your terms.”
“I’m going to do that.” she said
“Boundaries, baby. Gotta protect that space." I said smiling
Space Making Reflection
Look at the last two weeks of your schedule. Can you identify things or people that hijacked your time? How could you respond to them if it happens again?
Ready to slow down and create clarity? Let's walk.
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