Those Hated Tasks

Everyone has those tasks that fall on the “ugh” list. The ones that get put off for a while, and then tackled with an “ugh, fine”. Then there’s usually a most hated task that gets avoided at all costs, but eventually done, because when it’s your business, that’s how it always works.

Putting things off like that isn’t always the most efficient or effective way to run a business, however. So, I always ask. Is there a way to look at things differently? Or manage them differently?

• Ask yourself which tasks you dislike. Is there a way to integrate them into your schedule that makes them more tolerable? Perhaps at a coffee shop with a latte as a treat? Or alongside a creative friend while their accomplishing their hated tasks as well?

• As business owner, there are surely ones that you NEED to be doing yourself. Are there ones that you can hand off? Perhaps it’s time to outsource to another small business? Or make an addition to your team.

• Can you streamline these tasks? Whether through the development of a new system as part of your business operations, or the addition of a new piece of software or technology, there may be a way to lessen the burden of the task itself and make it more bearable.

• Lastly, is there simply a way to do the task differently? Sometimes there just isn't. Bills need to be entered the way they need to be entered. but depending on what it is, there may be a different approach or way to look at the undertaking that would allow you to change how you perform it.

At the end of the day, its worth taking a step back to see how you can change the way the you do tasks that you like doing the least. With a creative approach, there may be a solution that won't turn them into your new favorite thing to do, but will make them much more bearable and won’t cause your business to suffer or slow down in the meantime.