GON Reader Question
Dear Maria,
I really enjoy reading your books and articles!
My question is, I often read that a task should be completed in 3 or 5 minutes, but it inevitably takes me longer, 10 or 15 at least. Because of this, I keep falling behind schedule and get a bit frustrated.
I wonder whether you could consider providing tips for slow performers like me? I still work, so I do not have much time for tidying.
I really want to thank you for your work and the genuine kindness you
always show in all your replies.
Renata in Bologna, Italy
Response from
Maria
Hi Renata,
Thank you for your delightful message and your thought-provoking question!
The suggested completion times for tasks, like 15 minutes, is a general guideline. Each person operates at their unique pace. What may take 15 minutes for one could be 25 for
another.
It's essential to recognize that you're not a "slow performer" but rather working at your own pace.
As you plan your daily tasks, pad your time. For example, if a task is estimated to take 15 minutes, allocate 30 minutes for it. This strategy prevents you from falling behind schedule and allows some flexibility.
However, be cautious of Parkinson's Law, which states
that work expands to fill the time available for its completion. While padding time is beneficial, avoid padding more than is really needed.
For example:
If something must be completed by Tuesday, it will take most
people until Tuesday to get it done. Because Tuesday is the deadline.
If people are given an extra few days to get the task done (like by Friday), you'd think most would still get it done by Tuesday. But this is not the case. Most will work slower (even if they can work a bit faster) and get the
job done by Friday.
So, if a task you have to do genuinely requires more time, padding can help you stay on track. Plus, it will ensure you don't pack more into your schedule than you can actually handle.
You may even want to set a stopwatch when you start a particular task and time how long it takes you to get it done. That's the amount of time, then, to schedule for that particular task in the future.
Another point: Remember, the focus should always be on your achievements, not what's left undone. Celebrate your progress and accomplishments, embracing the pace that works best for you.
Finally, you mentioned you don't have too much time for tidying because you work
outside of your home. My suggestion to you is, tidy "as you go" and "do small bits each day."
Tidy as you go examples: After you use the kitchen sink, dry out the water in the basin and wipe the faucet clean. After you shower, squeegee the water off the shower
walls.
Do small bits examples: Dust and vacuum just one room a day. Wash, dry, (the washing machine and the dryer are doing most of the work) and fold one load of laundry a day.
Hope this helps a bit!
