Touch It Once Principle

This week I’m going to share an idea that has saved millions of entrepreneurs Billions of hours. You’ve probably heard it before, as I have, but perhaps a reminder will bring it back in focus.

Touch it once Principle

I recently got into bad habits about processing email and other relatively minor and quick tasks. I’d look at the task, consider the task and finally procrastinate to the actual doing of the task. Not good, and not productive.

Wanting to get back to a good habit I remembered the “TIO” Touch it Once Principle. That states: Do not look at something unless you are going to process it.

Say it is an email: I’m either going to respond, delete, act on it, or file in the appropriate category.

If I’m not going to take the time to properly handle the email I am not even going to look at my emails.

As for larger projects I try and work on them only if I am going to take them to a significant next step or complete.  If involving other people, I try and take it in one time frame as far as I can and then pass it on or get help.  It then goes into the “follow-up“ folder in my project management program.

This simple discipline can save hours every week. Give it a try.

This week: We are taking some time off to reflect on last year, to think about what worked and what didn’t, what activities helped advance my life’s mission and which did not. Then I’ll be planning for 2019, expect to see some major resources, events and activities to help propel your business to the next level.

Merry Christmas and happy News Year, and wishing you all the best for 2019. Let’s make it an Awesomely Fantastic Year!