The German Idea of “Hate Days” Helps Me Power Through My Most Annoying Tasks
“Kleinscheiss tag” is a perfect system for people who get easily side-tracked
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I’m a big fan of the recipe for increased productivity made famous by executive coach Dan Sullivan which is aptly named — “Free, Buffer, and Focus Days.”
In short, “Free Days” are the days where you don’t do anything work-related whatsoever; “Buffer Days” are the days you work on your business without any client work or appointments; and lastly, “Focus Days” are the days you work in your business and do your client work and hold appointments.
When I was coaching and consulting, barring a schedule change with a client, Dan’s suggestion was tops.
I’d start the week with a “Buffer Day” to get stuff prepped and do basic marketing, admin, and networking tasks. Tuesdays and Wednesdays were reserved for “Focus Days” and devoted solely to clients and forward-moving projects. And Thursdays and Friday, I’d rotate between another “Buffer Day” or “Free Day” depending on my workload before checking out for two consecutive “Free Days” over the weekend.
This worked great for a bit — then life happened.
First came kids. Then came the creative itch. And then came a world-stopping virus.
Today, as a writer, coach, and consultant who’s working most days with two young kids at his feet, no matter how hard I’ve tried Dan’s system, I haven’t figured out a way to be a “scheduled” creative. And to be honest, I’m glad I haven’t fought it because this past year has been rough enough without trying to explain to my kids that today’s Papa’s “Focus Day.”
Despite the world starting to very slowly open up again here in Spain — if you were to spy on me for a week, you’d think my life was chaotic.
Some mornings I’m writing. Other mornings I’m taking care of a kid with a fever. Other mornings I’m taking care of two kids with a fever.
Some afternoons I’m working with clients. Other afternoons I’m working on a collaboration. Other afternoons I’m asleep.
