Working Fast And Slow.

Whatever you do, there will always be some things that can be done quickly without much thought. For example, cleaning up your breakfast things and washing your coffee cup before leaving the house can be done quickly, as can making the bed.

At work, clearing your email inbox, most of your regular admin and planning the next day are examples of things you can do fast.

Then, some types of work need slowing down: project planning, writing reports and proposals, and putting together a presentation for the board. These would be examples of work that requires deeper thinking and not being rushed.

One of the most effective things you can do when you do your weekly planning is to identify what work will require slowing down and what can be done quickly.

Understanding your work dynamics allows you to manage your time more effectively.

Slow work needs protected time. Quick work can be done throughout the day.

Having time set aside for responding to actionable emails and messages and admin takes the pressure off your day.

If you were to protect two hours for your slow work each day, you would give yourself ten hours a week for work requiring focus and concentration. When you plan the week, all you need to do is allocate the appropriate work to those protected…