Not the drug.
Not the latest Impreza WRX.
Just pure unadulterated speed in getting things done.
Sure, some things you want to do slowly. Like programming a nuclear reactor. Like dinner at a nice restaurant with that special someone. But if you could do things faster, imagine the time savings so you could do more of the stuff you like to do slower…or time to do…well…nothing…
So this article has some similarities to my earlier piece on In Search of…Lost Time, but with one key difference. I’m looking for speed in mundane things to give me more time in important things.
So in no particular order, trawling the Web and other sources, here’s what I’ve found:
1. Move faster: Walk faster. Do what you do, only faster. Not only will you burn more calories, you’ll find that there is no appreciable loss in the quality of what you’re doing, and in some cases, quality may even increase. Oh, and ask someone who is doing it fast or faster than you on how to pick up the pace.
2. Computers and technology: Use two monitors to be more efficient. Most of us have an old or extra monitor laying around. It may involve an upgrade of your video card but it’s worth it. You can surf multiple sites at once on full screen. And whatever you do, do not waste time on dealing with SPAM!
3. Distances: Know how far important things are, ie. the kids’ school, the Post Office, the office supply store, computer supply store, supermarket, 7/11, dry-cleaner, hardware store, airport, etc. and time and record the runs. It’s amazing how much stress and time you’ll save when you know how long it takes to get somewhere (and back). A useful website for the fastest route between two points is Whereis.com.au (Use the "Get directions" button, instead of "Get map".)
4. Batch tasks: I have a friend that used to drive to appointments at all 4 different points of the compass, and then complain about feeling tired. Batch stuff you’re going to do in the same location together. Remember the milk has a handy take-anywhere forget-me-not system for remembering the milk, and a whole host of other things.
5. Timothy Ferriss’ 4-Hour Work Week: The Four hour work week site has great ideas and tips, including how to outsource non-core business in your life! Tim’s mantra of Define, Eliminate, Automate, and Liberate is, well, liberating. (Even better than David Allen’s GTD methodology recommended in my previous article on time management!). There’s enough resources, Tim’s blogs, and other info on site to keep you occupied for most of your 4-hour work week…
Well, go on…time’s ticking…
PS: Check out this speed-climbing guru’s tips on speed in everyday life at Speed is power
Andrew is Sydneyanglicans.net's resident digital scholar and the pastor of the Asian Bible Church (ABC), a congregation of St Andrew's Cathedral, Sydney. ABC, it's easy as 1-2-3, do-re-mi"
