Find Time to Prepare for the "Expected" Unexpected: 3 Tips

The Time Finder with Paula Eder

The way you use your time is the way you live your life.

Find Time to Prepare for the “Expected” Unexpected: 3 Tips

Posted on February 23, 2010, under Time Management Skills, Transitions and Time.

Finding time to deal with sudden change and the unexpected is a time management challenge that we all face from time to time.

But what about the “expected unexpected”? For example, here in New Hampshire, a wintry mix of snow, sleet and rain is predicted just about every day this week. Some days are expected to be messier than others … but we could have some wintry difficulties ahead, with all of their attendant tie challenges.

Or maybe not. Last week on the strength of the weather predictions many area superintendents closed the schools … only to have the storm wait until pretty much the end of the school day to arrive. The kids were happy, but a school day was lost.

So, what’s the best way to respond when disruption can be anticipated, but isn’t a sure thing? Here are 3 tips to consider:

First and foremost, put yourself into the mindset of acceptance. This doesn’t mean being passive. What it does mean is letting in the fact that “this could happen” and building from there. If you are in denial about the blizzard, it’s bound to disrupt things even more. Acceptance provides a base for moving forward as creatively and productively as possible. It also helps address the anxiety that the “expected unexpected” can produce.
Second, scan your upcoming schedule, prioritize, and develop contingency plans. Having accepted the possibilities ahead, you’ll be able to bring your most creative and proactive self to this challenge. You may find that you make unexpected, helpful discoveries as you do this. Maybe there are ways that you can streamline your schedule … even if the “expected unexpected” doesn’t materialize!
That being said, remember the NH school superintendents, and gather as much information as you can before making decisions. Strive to be agile and grounded in calm acceptance so that you don’t over-react to the possibilities. This can be a big challenge, though. So also be sure to forgive yourself if and when you guess wrong!

Being prepared for the expected unexpected is a challenge that we face with some frequency in our lives. How do you handle it? Drop me a line – I’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences!

What if you could find another hour every day? You can! You are invited to sign up for your FREE Finding Time Success Kit. It puts 3 key tools for your time success right into your hands! Grab it and see how you can recharge your energy, reduce overwhelm and frustration, and come to learn that 24 hours really ARE enough!

Let’s explore time together …

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There are 2 Responses to “Find Time to Prepare for the “Expected” Unexpected: 3 Tips”

#1 Mary Pat FitzGibbons - 02 March, 8:34 PM

This is exactly what I need. I work as a hospice nurse. What I think my day is going to look like at 8am is often different by 9am. I often feel like I am juggling too many balls while standing on shifting sands. I am looking forward to learning how to create calm out of chaos. Thanks. Mary Pat

#2 Paula - 02 March, 9:19 PM

Thank you for stopping by, Mary Pat – what you describe is at once fundamentally challenging and so at the heart of our human existence. I look forward to your presence on the call, and am confident that you will find helpful nuggets of wisdom for yourself as we explore tomorrow night!

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