Award Winning Logo Design Team
Most entrepreneurs live in a very fast paced environment filled with mind-boggling problems and difficult decisions to make every single day. At some point, we barely have time to stop, relax, and assess the big picture. If you fit this description, let me share a story with you about a woodcutter…
A man was struggling in the woods to saw down a tree. An old farmer came by, watched for a while, then quietly said, “What are you doing?”
“Can’t you see?” the man impatiently replied, “I’m sawing down this tree.”
“You look exhausted,” said the farmer. “How long have you been at it?”
“Over five hours, and I’m beat,” replied the man. “This is hard work.”
“That saw looks pretty dull,” said the farmer. “Why don’t you take a break for a few minutes and sharpen it? I’m sure it would go a lot faster.”
“I don’t have time to sharpen the saw,” the man says emphatically. “I’m too busy sawing!”
This classic productivity story came from the infamous book 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey. In short, we should take time out to renew our energy and come back strong. It’s more of working smart rather than working hard. Here are some simple things you can do to sharpen your saw:
- Take a long vacation and spend more time with your family or friends
- Read business books and listen to
- audio books to improve your skills
- Get a good night sleep
- Take power naps during breaks
- Eat the right food
- Exercise regularly to improve your physical well-being
- Stick to your schedule
- Listen to classical or chillout music
- Meditate or take time to be alone to contemplate about your life and business
- Clean your office
- Clear your e-mail inbox
- Study different skills (preferably not related to your small business)
- Maintain a journal or diary for all your rants and raves
- Solve complex puzzles or crosswords
- Talk with intelligent people
- Take time to laugh
- Engage in sports and other recreational activities
