STC West Coast members had an ideal learning opportunity at the November 17 chapter meeting. Doug Burns, life and business coach, shared strategies that anyone can use to focus priorities, accomplish goals, and support wellbeing. Doug is the principal of The Power of Two, the company he founded after many years in the corporate world.
First, Doug clarified that “having it all” does not mean trying to do everything. In fact, he encourages delegating, letting skilled people tackle tasks that require professional expertise. By focusing tasks and goals, people have a better opportunity to achieve balance in their lives. What areas? Doug listed many, including career; money management, fun and recreation, personal growth, and health. If one piece needs attention, priorities can be shifted to address the need.
A first step for finding a balance, Doug suggests, “is to assess where you are and then figure out where you want to be.” The process begins with defining values and then setting goals that align with those values. Doug acknowledged that it’s often hard to set work boundaries. Establishing boundaries begins with creating daily and weekly schedules and as much as possible, sticking to them. This frees up time to focus on constructive tasks so that they don’t turn into crises. Additionally, if some commitments can be delegated, we can carve out time for recreation and exercise and for friends and family.
Finally, Doug commented that he reminds his clients to cultivate a sense of gratitude and sense of perspective. Every day won’t be perfect, but a better balance can develop over time. Doug’s presentation was supportive and positive and left audience members looking toward “having it all.”
Next chapter event
Karen Rempel presents Yoga for Technical Writers
