Back to Work!

At a recent networking meeting, I overheard several people say they were actually glad summer is over - so they can get back to work! Kids have returned to school, summer activities have come to an end, and they now look forward to regaining that focus on their careers.

As summer weather and memories drift away and we move into fall, give your physical work environment a look. Notice what’s in place and running smoothly. See if anything’s slipped, perhaps an area needing some immediate attention: a pile of reading not yet reviewed, papers needing placement back in their appropriate files, or a process that needs some tweaking. Pick just one, focus your attention there, and get it done.

Now review your mental work environment, such as expectations and goals you or someone else set for you. Perhaps you need to improve your software skills, reach some sales numbers, cut your department’s spending, or better manage your employees. Choose the one goal that will most affect your success. Focus your attention there, and get it done!

Choose one physical area and one mental area of your work life. Create an action plan for making improvements with these areas first. Then choose another and then another. Methodically move through your list and set yourself up for being effective, calm, and clear-headed during the last 3 months of the year, when things are typically chaotic.

Once you are back on track, share this method with your work team, boss, or anyone you work closely with. Come October 1st, the first day of Q408, you’ll be fully prepared for whatever comes your way!

Please post a comment and let me know how you are easing back into work after summer.