This is a GREAT time to re-assess your commitment and plans for the year. If you’re trying to re-prioritize activities, meetings or anything else that is expected of you, but you no longer think they are your priority, apply the four Ds - DECLINE. DELAY. DELEGATE. DIMINISH.
DECLINE - just say no. This is one of the most powerful words I’ve learned to use courageously. Saying no gives you command and control over your time, energy and physical/emotional well being. Say no to things that are not going to add any value to your life, including people.
DELAY - agree to postpone whatever it is by a few days, weeks, or even months if you know you’ll be in a better positioned to engage then. It’s okay to delay. Because someone wants something from you right now, doesn’t mean you have to drop everything else. You own your own time.
DELEGATE - if you don’t think you’re ever going to want to do it, but you’d love to see it get done, then ask someone competent to lead or represent you. Yes, it has to get done. But no, it doesn’t have to get done by you. Some of the most effective people are master delegators.
DIMINISH - If all of the above fails, and you still can’t commit the time or effort required, then diminish it. Maybe commit to doing only a portion of what’s requested of you, or only attending a part of the meeting you’ve been invited to. Agree to diminish, and free yourself.
Of course we don’t all have the luxury to be in positions where we can apply these techniques. But now or sometime in the future, everyone can apply these techniques in some aspect of their lives. I hope they help you hit that reset button and take control of the rest of 2020.
