Summer Motivation

Have you ever found yourself becoming less motivated - and perhaps a bit less productive - during the summer? It isn't surprising: great weather, outdoor activities, and more social time all conspire to have us think beyond the job. Yet to be successful, especially in a tough economy, requires both focus and productivity. Here are some ideas that can help:

From a personal perspective:

1) Recognize that when others are taking it easy, doing great work can distinguish you.
2) Don't use to-do lists: instead, schedule activities directly into a timeslot in your calendar.
3) Take on a special summer project - maybe something that you've been meaning to do, but there hasn't been time - except for now.
4) Use the summer for professional development - either formal training, or perhaps reading some of the latest business best-sellers.
5) Do the planning for a fall project. It's much easier when the pressure is off.
6) Take some time to recharge - a vacation will do wonders for your energy level - and your state of mind.

If you manage other people:

1) Manage your staff to their goals and objectives, to help keep their eye on the ball.
2) Use the summer months for team-building and relationship building; a summer social activity, formal team-building activities, etc.
3) Reward individuals with recognition for excellent performance.
4) Empower a special project team with an end-of-summer deadline.
5) Arrange for a secondment for employees to another department  - and take someone else into yours.  
6) Model the behavior you want in others: be a great example for those around you.

This week's action plan: Choose one "extra" thing that you would like to accomplish this summer, then put it in your calendar. Not only will it improve your productivity, but because it is an activity of your own choosing, it will also improve your motivation.

Bonus Tip: As individuals, we can also choose to be productive and motivated beyond the work day: choose one "extra" personal activity that you would like to accomplish before the season changes. Accomplishing goals both at work and at home is what gives us Life Balance - and also what gives us motivation each summer.

Randall Craig is an expert on Social Media, Networking, and Career Planning; to find out how his workshops, webinars, and keynotes can help your team or add to your event, contact him through www.PersonalBalanceSheet.com, or by email at editor@ptadvisors.com.

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Copyright © 2010 Knowledge to Action Press and Randall Craig. All rights reserved.
Publication Date: July 6, 2010