Time flies when you’re having fun

Well I’m into year two, quarter two and after a successful year of trading, I look back and wonder where the time has gone!

It’s a clique to say that time flies when you’re having fun, but there’s no other way to describe it. I had a little look to see who coined the phrase and discovered it was Albert Einstein.

He also said “thinking is hard work; that’s why so few do it” which reminded me of a recent conversation I had with a client who wondered why I had to carry forward some hours from month to month.

So as I reflect on the flying time, what have I learnt along the journey?

Allow time to think – don’t just jump to do the first thing that you are asked to do, question first, don’t chose the easy option. That’s what I love about what I do – I allow myself time to question and think about the answer
Communications is King – so you think you’ve understood the brief, only to find out it has changed or someone else in the decision chain doesn’t agree, but no-one has kept you informed. Get into the habit of writing and sharing valuable meeting notes/next steps with those that need to know
Be realistic – set timescales that you can actually meet. I know I’m fast, but I’ve got to keep reminding myself I’m not superhuman. I don’t think I’ve intentionally let anyone down and intend to keep to that promise
Regularly report on successes – make sure you record your achievements as you go – it makes submitting board reports so much easier and I’m constantly surprising myself
Keep on top of admin – I know it boring, but do yourself a big favour and get organised.
Have fun – allow yourself time for tennis (and other hobbies) and fit them in wherever you can. Keeping fit and having a laugh keeps the stress levels down

So when I read back what I’ve just written, I think it’s funny because a lot of those things I’ve actually been striving to do for years. And remember, time does fly by, but you’re the pilot!