For many years I struggled with a simple problem – Getting things done.
Symptoms of this problem:
- Going home late
- Not finishing tasks on time
- Unread emails
- Stacks of paper on my desk
- Incomplete or improper responses to clients
- … and the list goes on.
A little over a year ago, it became unbearable. I had tried everything, read many ‘self-help’ books, tried to improve my time management, and attended seminars. Nothing seemed to work. I just did not have the ‘details’ gene.
It dawned on me that I was so much better at other things than writing emails, sending replies, answering and making follow-up phone calls, and doing paperwork. I would get into the nitty-gritty of installing software, doing excel spreadsheets, and lose focus of the ‘big-picture’. I was penny-wise and pound-foolish.
What did I do about it?
I hired a personal assistant. Something I would never have dreamed of doing earlier. How can I afford to hire someone? I did some analysis and math. Quickly I realized I could not afford not to hire help. I was scared.
It has been a year and a half since I made that decision. I must say, I have never been happier. My quality of life has become so much better, I am focusing on things I love doing and my revenue has actually gone up. My Productive senses are on full alert all the time, and I don’t get tired.
Wow, such a simple thing changed my life.
I am seeing a similar pattern with a lot of Doctors I speak with. In order to save money, they compromise on some critical elements of running a successful business. Running a Medical Practice is a serious business. I just don’t understand why they cut corners.
Doctors want to install modern EHR software systems but don’t want to pay for training. They are smart – granted, but then that is not where their efficiency should be used. EHR software systems are a paradigm shift not just for themselves, but for the entire practice. If not done well, it can make or break a practice. Revenues can suffer, and employee morale can suffer.
I just want to let them know – don’t be penny-wise and pound-foolish like I was.
