challenge - The Time Finder with Paula Eder

The Time Finder with Paula Eder

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

Find Time for the 5-Minute Solution and Nip Procrastination in the Bud!

Posted on April 18, 2012 by Paula, under Time Choices.

Finding time to overcome procrastination is a challenge that you can actually address in just 5-minutes – with 100% success – all the time! I know that sounds like an extremely bold claim, but in my experience, it really is true.

After all, the core challenge with procrastination is making a start. That’s the biggest hurdle, and once you’ve moved past it, your procrastination probably recedes like the landscape in your rear-view mirror.

Why 5-Minutes? Well, in a nutshell, 5-Minutes is a block of time that everyone can give themselves access to, pretty much any time.

I think that the reason many or most people procrastinate lies in a feeling of overwhelm. Maybe a task looks too large or you feel like it is beyond you for one reason or another. You don’t know where to begin, and so you don’t. The longer you wait, the larger and more overwhelming your task seems. You are stuck!

So, that’s the beauty of the 5-Minute Solution for procrastination. You can take 5-minutes pretty much whenever you choose and make a quick start on whatever has you stymied. There is no need to wait for the “right time” – just decide and do.

And a 5-minute commitment isn’t overwhelming or scary. You aren’t going to get too far into your task, yet 5-minutes gives you enough time to dip your toe in and begin to get a better sense of your project. In those 5-minutes you can make a start and know what your next step will be.

Your project no longer looms as an overwhelming monolith. You have found your way in, have a toehold and some traction, and can continue to move ahead. As you start making progress you’ll feel energized and engaged … and what had seemed a hurdle will become an ever-expanding horizon.

Now, isn’t that 5-minutes well spent?

What do you typically do when you realize you are procrastinating? Are there particular practices or tools that you find helpful? How about topics that you’d like to read more about here? Please feel invited to drop me a line – I’d love to hear from you and serve your time finding needs!

And in the meantime, want to learn more about how you can expand and deepen your time and efforts … in whatever areas you choose? Here’s a great way to explore avenues to increasing your time skills and heart-based power – whether it’s in your business, or your personal life. I am so pleased to be able to offer my expertise and support as The Official SelfGrowth.com Guide to “Time Management”.

You can visit by clicking the link, and when you do you’ll find lots of time management articles by experts in the field, along with a vibrant and welcoming on-line community. Stop by my Expert Page and leave a comment or question … or just say hello. There are lots of ways to connect … let’s get started!

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Find Time to Build Your Brave Muscles With a Daily Courage Workout

Posted on January 17, 2012 by Paula, under Time Choices.

Finding time requires you to act with clarity and assertiveness every day in big and small ways. So it helps to remember that courage can be cultivated on a daily basis.

And just like getting into shape, cultivating your courage is a step-by-step process. Each effort you invest provides a base for your next step. Looked at that way, each step is a triumph!

So, as with any big goal, remind yourself that courage is usually gradually acquired, not dramatically seized.

Courage is flexible, too. You grow best when you accept setbacks, correcting your course as needed. And because courage brings you face to face with the unknown, you can expect surprises. So, build in time to accommodate them.

Here’s a simple exercise to help you become better acquainted with your courage:

When you call upon yourself to meet a promising challenge, how do you experience this in your body?

Do you feel a warmth or coolness?

Are you breathing smoothly or braced?

If you inflate yourself with confidence, only to quickly deflate, try a fresh approach.

As a Tibetan maxim goes, “Rest the fearful mind in the cradle of compassion.”

Humility and receptivity allow you to accept knee-jerk resistance and to gradually overcome it.

Accepting a measure of discomfort is most helpful as you grow beyond your comfort zone. Play the edge of your discomfort in small ways, as a daily exercise. As this becomes easier, you will feel more resolute when gazing up at the next learning curve.

Want to learn more about how you can grow and optimize your time and efforts … in whatever areas you choose? Here’s a great way to explore avenues to increasing your time skills and heart-based power – whether it’s in your business, or your personal life. I am so pleased to be able to offer my expertise and support as The Official SelfGrowth.com Guide to “Time Management”.

Finding Time by Growing Your Courage Incrementally: Today’s Timely Tip! (thetimefinder.com)
Finding Time for Feelings: It’s The Heart-Based Way (thetimefinder.com)
Find Time to Let Changes Change You, Too! (thetimefinder.com)

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Find Time to Chunk Your Tasks and Stop Procrastinating Today!

Posted on July 19, 2011 by Paula, under Time Management Skills.

Finding time to stop procrastinating is one of the best time management skills that you can ever develop for yourself. And it’s a challenge … for all of us.

It doesn’t do you much good to let your inner critic try to goad you into action when you find yourself procrastinating. In fact, this will often lead to increased stress and, perhaps, the introduction of your “inner rebel” to the conversation. It’s a great recipe for digging your heels in even deeper, and coming to a virtual standstill.

But think about it: you don’t even know that you’re procrastinating unless you have some goals. So, the good news is if you know you’re stuck, it’s because you know where you want to go or what you want to do.

But getting from where you are to where you want to be involves effort. Effort is work. It means an investment of your time and energy. And when you invest effort, you expect and want to reap some kind of reward.

So, in some very basic ways, I think that one major source of procrastination can be the size of the gap between the effort and the reward. The larger the gap, the more likely you are to be challenged by procrastination.

If you have a really big task to do, something that is going to take days, weeks or even months to finish, when will you begin to see the benefits of your work? It can require skill and discipline to get started on a task like that … when the reward is so far in the distance that you need a telescope to see it!

But the good news is that you can build in your own rewards! You can do this by the way you structure your task, the ways that you remind yourself about it, and what you say to yourself when you’ve completed each step.

Chunking tasks down into bite sized pieces is a fundamental component of any attempt to overcome procrastination and begin to make headway on your goals. Chunking is a time management skill that gives you stepping stones and stopping places (where you can give yourself pats on the back along the way).

Basically, what chunking does is narrow the gap between your effort and your reward.

So, the next time you find yourself procrastinating about something, grab a piece of paper and write down the task at the top. Then create at least 10 stepping stones to get yourself to your goal. Begin with a first, small step as soon as you have finished writing down your stepping stones. (If you can’t do it immediately, be sure to schedule a specific time, and then follow through on your commitment.)

Notice how your energy changes and the impossible begins to feel possible! Chunking and creating stepping stones are the key. Then whenever you invest effort be sure that you validate yourself with some sort of reward, be it a kind word, a break, or something else that appeals to you.

And are you inspired to find time and increase your effectiveness, efficiency and enjoyment? What will be the first step that you take to start chunking and stop procrastinating?

Speaking of “first steps” here’s an exciting first for me! I am pleased to share that I am The Official SelfGrowth.com Guide to “Time Management”. When you visit you’ll find time management articles by experts in the field, along with a vibrant and welcoming on-line community. Stop by my Expert Page and leave a comment or question … or just say hello. There are lots of ways to connect … let’s get started!

So, what if you could find another hour every day? You can! You can explore some practical and effective options for taking charge of your time by signing up for our free gift – “The New Finding Time Boundary Template: 9 Simple, Sequential Steps to Find More Time and Recharge Your Energy!” Claim 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 …

Find Time to Increase Your Productivity with this Cyber Monday Time Tool! (thetimefinder.com)
Finding Time to Outwit Another Time Gremlin: The Procrastinator (thetimefinder.com)
Procrastination – Why you do it, and how to stop (yourmindyourbody.org)

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Finding Time and Focus No Matter What: Even Adult ADD Can’t Stop You with These 3 Timely Tips

Posted on June 28, 2011 by Paula, under Time Management Skills.

Finding time is a daily challenge for all of us. It requires focus and discipline. But what about finding time and focus when Adult ADD (Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder) is part of the mix for you?

Well, the good news is that while Adult ADD makes finding time more of a challenge, it doesn’t make it impossible. But let’s take a step back first. If you have been diagnosed with Adult ADD your reaction was likely as unique as you are. It may have ranged from feelings of loss about being “different’ to a measure of relief at having a name and a whole body of knowledge for something that you had been struggling with, perhaps for a long, long time. Here’s a brief description of the experience of Adult ADD, from the ADD Management Group Site (an excellent resource, by the way):

If you’re like many adults with Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder, then you’re struggling to simplify your life, focus on what’s important, and succeed at your goals.

You wake up feeling like you’re running behind. You go to bed feeling like you didn’t accomplish enough. You’re always stressed out. In general, you feel overwhelmed, unorganized, unproductive, lazy, and guilty.

It’s an exhausting way to live.

Many of us may be able to relate to some of these feelings, but not to the relentless and all-encompassing degree that someone with Adult ADD experiences them.

Jennifer Koretsky, author, coach and founder of the ADD Management Group has written an extremely readable and helpful book on this subject titled Odd One Out: The Maverick’s Guide to Adult ADD. One of the fundamental points that she emphasizes is that everyone diagnosed with Adult ADD has a choice right from the get go. “You can choose to see your ADD as a disability or a difference.” That basic choice then helps define many of the subsequent steps in your path.

So let’s start right there, with the first 3 tips (more to come tomorrow):

Viva la difference! You are probably very familiar with the ways that Adult ADD trips you up and makes your life difficult. But have you thought about the things that you LIKE about how you interact with your life? Brainstorm a list of the positives. Don’t censor yourself or hold back … this is for YOU.Next, choose your Top 5 from that list. Assimilate them. You are YOU and that is to be celebrated. The more you take that in, the more the impossible becomes possible.
One size doesn’t fit all. If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with Adult ADD, then gathering and using time management tools that work for you is going to be a key element in your time success. It is really important to remember that there is no “right way.” Your job is to seek out the best information and advice that you can find … and ultimately to follow your own unique path and use what works for you.
Start small and keep it simple. While it might look tempting, probably the last thing you need is a complicated time management system with lots of bells and whistles. Think small increments of time and simple tools for success, especially as you are starting out. Be patient with yourself, and write down what works as you explore this new path for yourself.What will emerge is your personal plan for time success. You can do it … step by step by step. How about taking your first step today?

And speaking of “first steps” here’s an exciting first for me! I am so pleased to share that I am The Official SelfGrowth.com Guide to “Time Management”. When you visit you’ll find time management articles by experts in the field, along with a vibrant and welcoming on-line community. Are you inspired to explore time management tips and tools to increase your effectiveness, efficiency and enjoyment? Then, I invite you to check out SelfGrowth.com and explore the many resources available there. And don’t be shy – stop by my Expert Page and leave a comment or question … or just say hello. There are lots of ways to connect … let’s get started!

So, 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! Claim 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 …

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have no material connection with the book and ADD Management website that are mentioned here, and have not received any compensation for writing this content.

Finding Time to Outwit Another Time Gremlin: The Procrastinator (thetimefinder.com)
Find Time to Move Through Fear (thetimefinder.com)
Find Time to Stop and Really Listen to What You Tell Yourself About Your Time (thetimefinder.com)

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Find Time with 5 Flexible Team-Building Tips

Posted on May 25, 2011 by Paula, under Time Management Skills.

Finding time when you work with others always works best when you start with good team strategy. This can be a challenge, and it’s especially difficult if you are working with someone who relates to time quite differently than you.

What do you do when you find that someone key to your work success defines her or his values around punctuality, planning, and procrastination very differently than you do? Don’t be daunted by the task … approaching these differences proactively can enhance cooperation in ways that may surprise you.

Here are 5 ideas to help you start viewing these conflicts in time styles as opportunities, rather than hassles:

Clarify what’s of prime importance to you. Pare it down and negotiate for it. The strength you build makes you more resilient and decisive.
Attune yourself to others’ varying approaches to time use. Genuinely accepting individual differences in time styles benefits you in 3 ways:
- Truly accepting that others won’t change for you spares you the frustration of fruitless efforts to control them.
- When people notice you are not trying to change them, they feel more receptive.
- When your colleagues feel respected, they are increasingly likely to negotiate with you.
Effective compromising increases flexibility and clarifies lines of power and responsibility. Different time styles often reflect different priorities. Explore how this can work to your mutual advantage.
- Here’s an example of how that might work: Maybe one of you would happily accept added responsibility if you could make your own hours. The other might hold down the fort 9:00 – 5:00 in return for not taking work home.
Commit to creativity. Thinking outside the box carries you beyond rigid power struggles. For every problem, there is a resolution that honors the integrity and needs of each person … so keep trying!
Present the challenge in terms of shared goals. Keep the focus on the rewards you all will enjoy. This stimulates cooperation … when you invite others to contribute ideas they become more invested in the problem-solving process (and, by extension, more dedicated to making it work).

Negotiating different approaches to time use will challenge each of you to grow. Rather than framing change as a sacrifice, consider the benefits of seeing and addressing the baseline needs of everyone involved. Ultimately this will improve morale, promote effectiveness and save you time.

Ready to take your next step to creatively negotiate for more productivity and more time? Let me know how it goes … I’d love to hear!

And here’s some Time Finder news that I am so pleased to share! I am now The Official SelfGrowth.com Guide to “Time Management”. When you visit you’ll find time management articles by experts in the field, along with a vibrant and welcoming on-line community. Are you inspired to explore time management tips and tools to increase your effectiveness, efficiency and enjoyment? Then, I invite you to check out SelfGrowth.com and explore the many resources available there. And don’t be shy – stop by my Expert Page and leave a comment or question … or just say hello. There are lots of ways to connect … let’s get started!

So, 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 …

Find Time to Get to Your Goals the Flexible Way-3 Time Tips! (thetimefinder.com)
Find Time to Stop and Really Listen to What You Tell Yourself About Your Time (thetimefinder.com)
Finding Time to Successfully Navigate Life Transitions (thetimefinder.com)

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Find Time to Turn Your Fear Into a Path to Your Strength: Empower Yourself and Recharge Your Time!

Posted on May 17, 2011 by Paula, under Time and Energy.

Finding time to work with difficult feelings like fear can ultimately recharge your energy and confidence. And the good news is that it doesn’t need to eat up a lot of your time to get there.

Indeed, as you develop the habit of looking your difficult feelings right in the eye, you’ll find that it’s a big time-saver and energy boost for you. You’ll experience the added bonus of exercising a lot more positive, proactive control over your time, too, because you’ll stop taking the long way around things as an avoidance tactic.

We’ll focus specifically on fear in this post – remembering that as you work with this, you can substitute any feeling that is difficult for you.

So, to start, here’s a useful mantra. Repeat this to yourself as you begin this empowering journey: “I turn my fear into a path to my strength.”

Maybe in the past, you’ve tried to hide your fear from sight. In fact, maybe you go so far as to deny your feelings to yourself. You would rather not think of yourself as indecisive or uncommitted.

That’s a natural-enough feeling, but it’s one that actually reinforces your fears and will keep you firmly stuck in them.

There’s a far more productive way to approach your fears: consciously reframe them as challenges that will call you to develop new and exciting strengths! This puts them in a positive context, and, even more importantly, places you in a proactive (rather than a reactive) stance toward them. Right there you are taking back your power and putting yourself in charge.

That changes everything!

So, the next time you feel fear about saying no, don’t push that fear away. Greet it as a friend with important information to share.

Here are 3 questions you can ask, as you pursue a deeper understanding of your fear. Ask yourself:

How can I turn this fear inside out? (Reframe it as an opportunity.)
What lesson have I been trying to avoid? (Embracing it will ground and empower you.)
How will I reinvent myself once I say no? (The assertiveness you develop will expand your potential.)

Let your imagination roam freely as you work these questions – the answers you receive may surprise you – and I’d love to hear your experience as you make this empowering journey!

So … are you inspired to find even more time and increase your effectiveness, efficiency and enjoyment?

Then, I invite you to explore Secrets of Heart-Based Time Management – my chapter in the book I co-authored - Stepping Stones to Success! In it I share my proven system for harnessing the power of your mind, your body and your spirit to help you explore your patterns, clarify your values, identify and prioritize your goals … and create your path for achieving them.

The in depth interviews contained in this book provide practical and heart-based ideas to get you moving as you embrace yourself and your own uniqueness!

You can give yourself the gift of this wonderful resource today, and get started on your journey toward success, Stepping Stone by Stepping Stone … just click this link to get the details!

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 …