Heading down to the beach I rescued a turtle hit by a car. It was stunned, immobile and had it’s shell cracked. It’s a survivor and it’s story has lessons in ways we can adjust to be more productive.
Act fast-Tough for a turtle but it’s how this little guy got into problems in the first place. He was just too slow when crossing the road. What have you been working on lately where you lollygag and take your time? What can move you to get into a place of action and act fast? Because if you don’t-BAM! You could end up having a really bad day.
Take a rest after something traumatic-Our little turtle took it’s time before it began to move around. It took a few days before it ate anything. It was timid, rightfully so. I’ve known people who aren’t fully recovered from the flu head into work. People who after a big meeting or event who don’t take the time to rejuvenate. Instead they run ragged through their business. Take the time you need to rejuvenate after something big hits.
Create a good environment-Painted turtles love the water. Once its shell began to heal, it was important to create the natural surroundings that would help make it strong again. What do you need to do at your desk or on your computer that will make your business strong? How about a backup of your data? Cleaning up some files? Cleaning off your desktop? Purging out some emails?
It’s OK to be late sometimes-Surf camp on Sundays starts at 5. I knew I’d be on time even with some beach traffic. Turning around on a back road, capturing a wounded turtle, assessing if it was alive, it all took time. It meant that I was going to be late. It’s OK to be late sometimes if there is an emergency or pressing problem. Showing up late all the time, that’s not good.
Get the right tools-With a quick google search, a raid in the toolbox and the first aid kit, the right tools were there for a repair. Duct tape patches up all kinds of things, including a turtle shell. How often do go without the proper equipment? Do you have a stash of everything you need in an emergency? Or even the tools you need day to day? Getting the right tools can heal your business.
Know someone will support and help you-As business owners we all have bad days. This turtle certainly had a bad day crossing the road. I was there to help. Who is out there on your bad days that can support and help you? Find them and cherish them. If you feel you need support, finding a coach is a great way to move forward.
Let go-After a few weeks, we were able to let this little guy go from a small aquarium into the wild. What do you need to let go of at work? When you do let go, a more expansive opportunity might be just around the corner.
It all comes down to being agile at work. What do you need to do to make your bad days better ones?
Margo Crawford is a Productivity Coach and Professional Organizer with Wave Productivity. When she’s not helping turtles she helps Certified Public Accountants, Serial Entrepreneurs and C-level executives get more focused, organized and productive in their workplace. She coaches by phone nationally and in person in Phoenix, Providence and Boston. If you want to get more organized in your office call 602-677-8275 or email [email protected].