Look Forward, Not Backward

There are two ways to look at the end of each day. One is to worry about everything that you didn't get done that you wanted to. The other is to reflect on all the things you did get accomplished.

A great little book that I use for closing thoughts in my work with clients is called Don't Sweat The Small Stuff ... and it's all small stuff. The title of one vignette is "Remember That When You Die Your In Basket Will Still be Full." We all could improve our outlook on life if we keep this in mind. A busy and productive person will always have more to do, so fretting about that which is undone in counterproductive and potential harmful to your emotional and physical health.

To reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed, spend time at the end of each reflecting on what you achieved and then look forward to what you want to accomplish the next day. Force yourself not to a look back at what was undone. It doesn't accomplish anything because the time is past and you can't do anything about it. Living in the past is a sure way to neglect the future. Spend your time on those things which you can do something about.

Golf Lesson

Golf is one of my passions as you will notice in my blog writings. While difficult sometimes, this whole idea of looking forward, not backward is key in playing golf well. I know I have ruined many a good round by getting upset about a bad shot or bad break. I play my best golf when I focus on each shot as I am ready to hit it, not worrying about the poor shot I just hit, or thinking ahead to the great score I'll shoot if I keep playing like I am.

The same is true in the game of work. Concentrate on what you are doing right now and do it to the best of your ability. Don't worry about past mistakes, or get caught looking too far ahead. Stay in the present.