Rationalization can put a choke-hold on productivity

Rationalization is an attempt to justify inappropriate action or inaction. Sometimes people see it as a friend because it can help protect self-esteem. However, it is not a friend when it is used to avoid doing a vital task we don’t want to do.

Perhaps you are avoiding a call to an unhappy customer. You know the customer or client will be angry and you rationalize by saying something like, “This probably isn’t a good time.” Of course, you know it is an excuse.

A close look at rationalization reveals its first-cousin relationship to procrastination. Why? Because rationalization is used to justify putting things off.

Here is the good news! Rationalization is a self-imposed time-waster. This means you can control it. Listen to your self-talk and recognize when you are doing it. Replace those thoughts with a “can do” and “will do” attitude.

How To Supercharge Your Daily Routine

Most people aren’t aware of this powerful time tactic!  When you are listing high-priority tasks for the day, list a “personal principle” to practice.  Some favorite principles of mine are being positive, praise others, smile, really listen and practice self-discipline.

Practice the personal principle you list all day long, then check it off complete at the end of the day as you would any other task.

You’ll get progressively better at living the principle, impact others in a positive way, and feel better about yourself.

This is productivity strategy #68 from the book Attack Your Day! Before It Attacks You co-authored by Mark Woods and Trapper Woods, time management experts.

Avoid problems, clarify the unclear

What does a person do if his or her role is unclear? Not much! What does a person do if instructions are unclear? Makes mistakes! What is the result of fuzzy communication? Misunderstanding!

Yes, failure to clarify the unclear is a serious TIME WASTER with negative consequences. Make certain when communicating to get feedback on what you said. The time required to clarify the unclear is minimal compared to the problems it solves. Don’t forget to make notes on what it is you said.