Some weeks I have so much going on that it’s overwhelming. Each of you probably feel this way sometimes, too. The job, the book, family obligations, the blog….
When I start to feel overwhelmed, like there’s just not enough time for my projects, I ask myself: What is the one thing I want to get done this week to help me reach my goal? It could be write one story, complete one guest post, outline one e-book or flesh out one character. What’s that one thing that, if I get it done, will make me feel productive and good about myself?
What’s your one thing this week?
I needed this today, Alexis. I’m feeling overwhelmed. My one thing: Coach my students on their profiles and travel pieces for our class blog on our trip to Uganda. I need to focus on that and not get distracted.
This is great advice, though I usually do it with three things per week or one thing per day.
This week? It’s write five first draft chapters in my novel. It’s nearing the end and frustrating me. Has been for two months now.
Hope Clark
FundsforWriters.com
So right. Sometimes the best I can do is just one thing. I believe in the “fifteen minute theory”. Don’t try to tackle it all, just get through the next fifteen minutes. Complete a task now. As I write, I have my to-do list sitting at my side. It’s almost pulsing. Teasing me. Visiting my favorite blogs should be on there. That way I can cross it off my list and feel a sense of accomplishment.
Mine is usually to clean out my mailbox. It feels good to get organized, but I also find I get very little writing done that way.
I definitely needed this – I’ve been feeling a bit overwhelmed lately and never thought about setting one goal. I get so distracted with all of the side projects.
My goal for this week is to get one resume out. Instead of just talking about finding a job I love on the west coast, actively supporting this dream will make me feel like I accomplished something. Thanks for the reminder to focus on one goal at a time.
Megan — What type of job are you looking for, and where? Let us know so we can keep our eyes open.
My one thing this week is a very big one. Yesterday I booked a one-way ticket home (from Beijing to San Francisco) and right now I will book the ticket to my next destination, Chile. There are many, many, many small things to do to make this happen, especially since I leave next week (!) but the first thing is to book the tickets.
Nice! Exciting! Booking the ticket makes it real, huh? Keep us posted.
My one thing that I just did was sign up for a trial lesson from MatadorU’s Travel Writing program. I have been debating about spending the money for this on-line course for over a month but when they sent me a promo saying I could try out the program for a week for $10, I couldn’t say no. Hopefully, this will help me farther on my goals of becoming a paid and traveling writer.
Very cool! Would love to hear whether it’s worth it.