Sunday, July 31, 2011

Build structures that work for you

Structures is a word that we unconsciously associate with biology, chemistry, physics, society, organization, and data, but we rarely think of them as systems that support our own goals and development. However if you start looking at your surroundings and the meaning behind your actions you could find structures that you've built everywhere. Getting a coffee every morning when you wake up is a structure that supports your waking up process. The folders in your computer are a structure that helps you organize your data. Your calendar is a structure that moves you through your appointments and meetings. Your structures are powerful and you can make them even more powerful. So what can you do?

Start with what you have
Look around and discover the structures that you have already built. You might be aware of some of them and you might discover some that you've activated unconsciously. Think about your findings. Which structures are supporting you and which structures present as an obstacle to your own goals? Which ones need to stay and which ones you need to let go?

Make a reality check with your own goals
Spend some time to reflect on your personal goals and see how the structures you already have support you with them. Next, think about what areas you need to start structuring or further structure. When you do that it is also time to think of what type of structures work for you, make a link with your own personality and type to build structures that match who you are and empower you to move forward.

Structure your own structures
Build a plan on managing your own structures. Some elements to include are measurements of the efficiency of your structures and periods for reassessment. Don't let them stay forever. Come back to them from time to time to evaluate how they serve your needs and whether some new changes should be done. Make this process cyclical and take your life in your hands.

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