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Systems, Flexibility, and Spontaneity

Guest post by: Danielle Miller

Article Overview: Women entrepreneurs often under estimate the power of having systems. There is often the misconception that systems are complicated and time-consuming. This article gives some simple tips for creating systems and why they are useful.

Systems, Flexibility, and Spontaneity



Systems were not always my favorite thing. In my mind, systems represented rigidity and inflexibility; since having my own business, however, I've come to understand that systems are the exact opposite! Indeed, systems allow for more flexibility and adaptability in both your personal and professional life. How is this possible? Let me count the reasons and give some examples of systems that you can easily integrate in your life. So what are some things that can be systematized? Well, it can be as simple as batching your errands on a weekly basis. Some tips for systematizing:

• Look for patterns in your daily routine that can be grouped together. As I mentioned, batching your errands all in one day; taking client calls for a block of time each day, or only one day of the week.

• Create checklists for tasks so you can see a beginning, middle and an end.

• Inventory what processes are in place now and where the weak points are.

• If you're an entrepreneur, create templates (such an emails, contracts) for often used forms to streamline the process

• Delegate tasks that can be done by someone else...yes as I said before, it can be difficult~you need to get over it!

• Create task analysis procedures when work is delegated so there are clear expectations for everyone involved in the process.

It's important to understand that creating systems is an integrative process; that is they tend to get created as you go along developing your business. Creating systems also requires what is known in education as ‘front end loading'. That is, the realization that you will spend some time and effort up front in order to develop duplicatable material that can be used over and over again. It is in this way that you are also leveraging your efforts most efficiently.

Creating systems increases your productivity and helps you manage your most important asset: your energy and you!

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Article Tags: flexibility, processes, productivity, spontaneity, systems, women entrepreneurs



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