Dec92009
The $266,490.00 Productivity Secret
Ivy Lee -- inventor of the $266,490 productivity secret
The man pictured on the left is Ivy Lee. He died in 1934 — 75 years ago.
But one of his greatest lessons lives on.
And you can use this lesson today to explode your productivity and start accomplishing your goals faster than you ever imagined.
And I’m not just talking about exploding your productivity and success in the Cash Flow Business, but every area of your life.
To help you truly appreciate just how valuable this productivity secret can be in your life, let me tell you the story of how Ivy Lee came to be known as an expert in productivity.
Back in the 1920’s, Charles Schwab was already a legendary businessman. He started out as a stake-driver in the steel business and by the age of 35 he’d already worked his way up the ladder to company president of Carnegie steel.
After Carnegie Steel was sold, Schwab ran the Bethlehem Steel company. With Schwab at the helm, Bethlehem Steel became the 2nd largest steel manufacturing company in the world and Schwab himself enjoyed a massive personal fortune.
But he didn’t rest on his accomplishments. Despite turning Bethlehem Steel into one of the most efficient businesses of its time, Schwab sought out Ivy Lee and asked him how he could get more things done in a day.
As the story goes, Ivy Lee gave him this very simple productivity tip:
List all the things you want to get done tomorrow. Prioritize them #1-6.
Start the day by tackling the first job on the sheet. Don’t move on to #2 until #1 is complete. If you finish the first task and there’s still time left in the day, move on to the next task and continue in the same manner.
The next day, continue to work on your list — focusing on each task until it’s completed and only then moving to the next item on your list.
Teach all your employees to work in the same manner. Try this for one week and then send me a check for whatever you think the advice is worth.
Charles Schwab found the advice so valuable that he sent Ivy Lee a check for $25,000 — the equivalent of $266,490 in today’s money.
Of course, most people will never try this. They’ll tell themselves this is “just too simple.” And they’ll continue to wonder why they never get anything done.
So I want to issue a challenge to you:
Try this for one week.
Before you go to bed at night, grab an index card and write out the six most important things you need to accomplish during the next day. Leave it on your nightstand.
Then, when you wake up the next morning grab your list and follow your plan. When you accomplish all the items on your list, tear it up and make a new one. Try this for just one week and then report your results back to me by making a comment on this blog.
This really is one of the most vital skills you can have as an entrepreneur. I’ll admit, it sounds overly simple. But developing the ability to “plan your work and work your plan” is one of the key principles of massive success in ANY endeavor.
Master this skill and you can pretty much write your own ticket — in the Cash Flow Business and in every area of your life.
So I challenge you to try this for a week. I look forwarding to reading about your results.
– Russ
Founder of Winning in the Cash Flow Business
Sounds great! I accept your challenge! See you in one week!
Thanks, my sincerest gratitude…
December 10th, 2009 at 1:34 pm
Thanks
December 10th, 2009 at 1:36 pm
I had been taught this as a youth by my aerospace engineer father. It works real well when structured, meaning the trip to the store doesn’t go on the list. My experiences over the years has evolved into the real cheap note book that fits into your shirt pocket because I need to refer back over time and don’t want to lose any cards, so they are bound. I now keep the 3×5’s for making flashcards. This habit require you to wear shirts with pockets too even when “going to task” on a project. Finishing one at a time helps keeps too many irons from getting hot at the same time, and not getting anything completed.
December 10th, 2009 at 1:44 pm
Russ –
Often see your notes & read them when I can, but today’s has prompted me to relate the following. I stumbled into the very thing the Ivy Lee proposed. And actually use it daily, however, mine is slightly modified.
You can not always control everything. So, despite having my priorities on paper, which works to keep me focused. I sometimes have to carry them over to next day or even the next. But it is always the same priorities until they get done. It works very well! I would say six might even be a lot for one day. It is always good to graduate from some easy hits to the larger challenges (if these have been defined by incremental tasks) they can be added o the daily and help chip away at getting the larger challenges promptly handled.
This year I ran my dept. for the Americas region at a large chemical co., led deployment of SAP application and was an agenda speaker at an Event held in Prague … oh yeh! my wife just had twins to go with a 5yr. old boy and 2 yr olf girl.
I say all this to echo what Ivy Lee discoverd so many years ago. Productivity — when it comes right down to — is about the doing.
December 10th, 2009 at 1:45 pm
Mr Russ,
That is excellent advise. Ishall give it my best
shot Thank You
Zahid.
December 10th, 2009 at 1:49 pm
Often see your notes & read them when I can, but today’s has prompted me to relate the following. I stumbled into the very thing that Ivy Lee proposed. And actually use it daily, however, mine is slightly modified.
You can not always control everything. So, despite having my priorities on paper, which works to keep me focused. I sometimes have to carry them over to next day or even the next. But it is always the same priorities until they get done. It works very well! I would say six might even be a lot for one day. It is always good to graduate from some easy hits to the larger challenges (if these have been defined by incremental tasks) they can be added to the daily set and help chip away at getting the larger challenges completed.
This year I ran my dept. for the Americas region at a large chemical co., led deployment of SAP application and was an agenda speaker at an Event held in Prague … oh yeh! my wife just had twins to go with a 5yr. old boy and 2 yr olf girl.
I say all this to echo what Ivy Lee discoverd so many years ago. Productivity — when it comes right down to it — is about the doing.
thxs,
–cv
December 10th, 2009 at 1:53 pm
ok i`ll try it.
December 10th, 2009 at 1:54 pm
Hey….great article…this is exactly how I work…I make a daily list in the morning and
stay with it until its finished…Thanks
Don Taber
December 10th, 2009 at 2:08 pm
hi thanks for your help,i will try it
December 10th, 2009 at 2:11 pm
Dear Russ,
Thank you so much for this. Believe it or not, just last night I started remembering this very system that I used to do everyday. I fell asleep thinking, “I have to get back to this simple habit.” Your blog is the perfect timing and affirmation. I will put it into action and let you know what happens next. Thank you again for your great intuitive coaching and enhancing what is just waiting for me and others. With gratitude and humility. Mary Murphy
December 10th, 2009 at 2:14 pm
Pretty short comment here.
This stuff sounds good to put into action.
December 10th, 2009 at 2:19 pm
Don’t give up on me. I am pretty long in the tooth, but still sharp mentally. I just have not had the money to pay for your offers. This may change soon. I still belive in your business and wish to participate. Thank you. Larry Shaw
December 10th, 2009 at 2:27 pm
I’ve had a Mary Kay Cosmetics business for 30 years and one of the first things she taught us was to make our “Six Most Important Things” list right before going to bed.
I’ve done this ever since and you are absolutely right….you will be more productive than you could possible imagine. I think this is why I can juggle so many things in my life; it makes you organized and focused.
In addition to being more productive, I just love crossing off a task when it’s done.
December 10th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Good stuff! I’ve been doing this for years.
I post my Day Timer with everything coming up tomorrow and the next day, and if it’s important committments or appointments, I post it for the coming week.
December 10th, 2009 at 2:31 pm
Thanks so much; I will make a sincere attempt to use this advice to become more organized & accomplish more that I’ve done so far.
December 10th, 2009 at 2:38 pm
Just started today and I believe it
will be most helpful during this
particularly busy holiday season.
December 10th, 2009 at 2:41 pm
What’s the easiest approach to getting people to understand that the equity in the house is a plus when selling the note and not something that they’ll be losing out on. This seems to be one of the biggest set backs with most people I meet, is that they’re afraid of losing the equity in the house.
December 10th, 2009 at 3:05 pm
This sounds great I’ll try it. Thanks for sharing.
December 10th, 2009 at 3:08 pm
Russ, this plan works well in each and every person’s individual world. Whether you apply this list to your business or to your home projects, the feeling of accomplishment is gratifying.
I’ve only recently joined “winning in the cash flow business” but I believe in me so this business will be profitable! Thank you for this opportunity.
I haven’t received my information in the mail yet, but intuition tells me this is going to be a sweet ride!
Carol
December 10th, 2009 at 3:23 pm
Russ,
Forty-eight years ago I began a system similar to this. My wife of 42.5 years still has calenders that supplement our genealogy records, day by day.
I have used a Daytimer for decades. I’m not attempting to impress anyone, I just want to say to everyone, who dosn’t use a method to track their time, that there is really no way to mentally keep up with all we do over a 30 day period.
I deal with many people every month. My files will show that I keep their names(necessarily a part of every file), the day I talk to each, the content of each conversation, and the time of day I contact them.
Those are important facts, in case a legal situation arises.
Anyway, I couldn’t tell what I did on M/D/Y last year ( or this) without it.
MERRY CHRISTMAS TO EVERYONE!!
December 10th, 2009 at 3:54 pm
Good Info for those unaware. This is traditionally called a TTD Things To Do. As a young man enlisted in the USN, This practice was implemented daily on my assigned ship. Our Bosun took it a step further, every am we would go over what was accomplished, and what needed to get done. At the end of the work day the Bosun would have each man write at least 1 item that he noticed needs attention.The suggestions were added to what needed to get done each am. This practice WILL force you to become a highly productive individual.
December 10th, 2009 at 4:02 pm
Thank you for the opportunity to try my hand at perservering….as a substitute teacher in the sunset years of my life I perservered most evertime called.. I had run a art gallery for nine years listed with Dun Bradstreet until the economy went flat back in 1977 when we had to line up for gas…the first sign of problems with our domestic oil supply…I have had opportunities that I haven’t been able to accept due to budget constraints…so I will see how this helps me…Thank you.
December 10th, 2009 at 4:02 pm
Thank you for the reminder Russ, there was a time in my life that I did use this method of “getting things done” and it worked without a doubt, why I ever stopped using it I am not quite sure but I will put it back in place starting tomorrow!! Thanks Russ.
December 10th, 2009 at 4:39 pm
Thanks
Great advice
December 10th, 2009 at 4:49 pm
I have come across about this method towards success before. I always list down Daily Plan and tried to follow it; marked it out when done. But I did this only as a “TO DO LIST” and not on business plan. Thanks for these tips.
December 10th, 2009 at 4:58 pm
On my second mailing still pluging along.I’ll give that list a try.
December 10th, 2009 at 5:08 pm
Thanks Russ I am confident this will work and help me to be more productive than I ever have been. Of course I will still need help with closing my 1st note deal but I’m going ahead and claiming it now.
December 10th, 2009 at 6:25 pm
Hey Russ, Thanks for the tips! I will definitely give it a try. I always seem to find that I have more to do in a day than I can accomplish – listing them should help. Thanks for all you do to help us succeed!
December 10th, 2009 at 6:36 pm
Interesting, I have been doing variations of this for years and don’t remember where I even got it. I have two transmission shops and have instructed each of my managers to keep our workflow boards just like this. A twist we have added is that as the men accomplish a task, they mark through it but in a way we can still tell what the task was. I do this for two reasons. One, if I have been out of the shop B all day and walk in, I can tell who has been working and who has been playing with just a glance and without bothering anyone. I have also found that if the manager develops the list for the next day at close the night before and at say lunch time with the tech and get a commitment from them as he develops the board, it will get done. If the manager simply writes stuff up there, and does not discuss with the techs, chances are good they will not complete the tasks. If you just write a line thru the tasks as you complete them, at the end of the day, you have a sence of accomplishment.I personally use the back of a junk fax page and fold it into four quarters and keep it in my back pocket or in my shirt pocket.I’ll use one paper nearly all week. At the end of the week when I wonder what I accomplished, I pull it out and see.
December 10th, 2009 at 6:51 pm
It’s good advice. I do this every night before
going to bed. It’s a reminder list for me and
I do get the most important things done that
next day. Thank you.
December 10th, 2009 at 6:54 pm
Dear Russ I still trying get ahead. First thing getting notes n
December 10th, 2009 at 7:00 pm
i do this sometimes now,i will try it more.
December 10th, 2009 at 7:05 pm
Sounds easy. Precursor to making that first note deal. Thanks for the challenge, can’t hurt.
December 10th, 2009 at 7:09 pm
thanks sound great. I’ll try this week.
December 10th, 2009 at 7:21 pm
I will start on this IMMEDIATLY,been doing the Million Dollar Mind Set also. Hey it really works!!Working on getting my first deal posted.I will use the BLOG to help me get this deal closed.Haven’t had the income to participate in your programs,however when this deal gets closed LOOK OUT!!! MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!
December 10th, 2009 at 7:40 pm
my Marine friend always says that,Plan your Work, and Work Your Plan. Even though many other things seem to assert their own priority,it’s good to have something to focus on, to get back on the original course once the obstacles have been negotiated. I have some obstacles of my own.
Greg
December 10th, 2009 at 8:12 pm
RUSS, YOU’RE THE BEST. THANX FOR THE GIFT & THINKING OF US, TEACHING US PERSEVERANCE, GIVING US PRACTICAL TOOLS. HAVE A GREAT CHRISTMAS!
December 10th, 2009 at 8:27 pm
Im so glad to read this because one of my little things to do was just read my email more often.I WILL defintly try this and get my first deal no matter what Im not going to give up.Thanks Russ!!!
December 10th, 2009 at 8:50 pm
russ,
I want to thank you for staying with me and sending new infomation once a week. you are a very possitive person and i thank you for that.
I have also herd of this person and the message. I will put it to use.
Rany
December 10th, 2009 at 8:52 pm
Russ, I will try this method and let you know in few more days, thanks
Dennise J.
December 10th, 2009 at 8:58 pm
Okay Russ, I will definitely take you up on your challenge. I’ve already written my six tasks for tomorrow 12/10/09. I will give a report next week of my progress.
Excellent suggestion.
December 10th, 2009 at 9:00 pm
Mr. Russ,
I enjoyed the reading. Although I have not had & still do not have the finances to take you up on your many offers, I hope you do not give up on me because I have not given up. I want to participate in this business because deep down I believe this business is for me. Something is going to give and it will be in my favor. Mean while I will work on using this advice for getting things accomplished.
December 10th, 2009 at 9:09 pm
A great idea, one I have tried a number of times, but for some reason, I cannot keep it going. My phone rings incessantly, and there always seems to be something to keep from doing things from the list. Nevertheless, I still get more things done if I have a list, than if I don’t have a list! It definitely is better! I look forward to getting started in your program. Please have your representative call me ASAP!
December 10th, 2009 at 9:19 pm
Thanks Russ I will follow plan.
kong sourivong.
December 10th, 2009 at 9:19 pm
I have used this plan before. Thanks for the advice.
December 10th, 2009 at 9:22 pm
Excellent system I used for years until recently when family illness issues interrupt without warning, blowing the whole plan out of the water every day. I will apply it again in spite of obstacles.
December 10th, 2009 at 9:24 pm
This is something I really need to do. I feel like I’m stuck in the mud and can’t accomplish anything because of the many projects that are undone or incomplete. This is confirmation!!!
December 10th, 2009 at 9:25 pm
I dont have ability to listen yet-i WILL SOON AND CANT WAIT!
December 10th, 2009 at 9:25 pm
DEAR ,RUSS
I REALLY WANT TO WORK THIS GREAT CHANCH IVE BEEN GIVIN,MY LIFE HAS BEEN PUT ON HOLD SINCE MY FATHER IS HAVING A TUFF TIME TAKING CARE OF HIMSELF. ITS MY JOB RIGHT NOW TO GIVE BACK TO HIM AND FORGET ABOUT ME .PLEASE DONT GIVE UP ON ME BECOUSE IVE BEEN A SLOW STARTER IN THE CASH FLOW GIFT IVE BEEN GIVIN. I WILL TRY TO DO THE LIST OF SIX THINGS TO DO EVERY DAY AND SEE WHAT HAPPENS.I WILL STAY IN TOUCH AND LET U KNOW HOW IT WORKS.
THANK YOU RUSS ,YOUR FRIEND RICHARD AKER …..
December 10th, 2009 at 9:35 pm
Hi, Russ
I began my first list now.
After getting a notice that because of cutbacks, I might have to move from 500-1700 miles to another post office. A clerk’s job is on the 10 most endangered jobs of the decade.
We will lose about 6 Billion dollars this year. We have done about the same dollar amount of
cost-cutting also this year.
email of course is the reason.
The point is, that starting this program after joining Russ 2 years ago is now become an urgent priority.
I won’t begin #2 on my list until I make my first note deal.
Thank you Russ for this very simple idea. No fancy notebooks or calendars or computer programs.
JUST A PIECE OF PAPER.
December 10th, 2009 at 9:37 pm
Thank you Russ
December 10th, 2009 at 9:38 pm
Sounds like a great plan of action,
I accept the challenge cause action speaks
louder the words.Get back with you in a week.
December 10th, 2009 at 9:44 pm
I’ll try it.
December 10th, 2009 at 9:52 pm
Hi folks: I have used this method for a number of years, especially when writing down food or health items that I don’t want to forget to purchase from the grocery or pharmacy. I have used sticky notes and then transferred unfinished items to a notepad for long-term situations that I want to accomplish. I have not always written down 6 items, but as many or as little that I must do for the next several days, especially through the weekend. It’s always annoying to have gone out and have forgotten something to do or buy that was not on the List. (PS you can save gas, too, by ‘putting all of your eggs in one basket’.)
December 10th, 2009 at 10:10 pm
This is a great story and I’ve been doing it for
many years. I enjoy tearing up the list and
starting a new one. Yes, it works quite well.
I find I get a lot done in a day.
Thanks for sharing this help and all the other
ways you keep us informed.
Jacquie
December 10th, 2009 at 10:17 pm
Thanks Russ
I will give it a try and maybe it will help me
get to moving,
will let you know
December 10th, 2009 at 10:21 pm
I think this is a great plan and no it’s not as easy as it sound at first. However it should become easier as time goes on and this plan is implemented. We all should do this. Now and forever. I will be starting this plan for myself tommorow because it can actually be a plan for others. When one becomes more productive for ones self they are really becoming that way for others. That can be the way we then make our difference in this world.
December 10th, 2009 at 10:33 pm
Thank you for this valuable advice. I am starting tonight, will check back with you in one week.
December 10th, 2009 at 10:50 pm
I accept challenge! This is great for everyone!
December 10th, 2009 at 10:59 pm
Wow! Thank you Russ. I will start tomorrow. I do want to start my cash flow business. Don’t give up on me please.
December 10th, 2009 at 11:22 pm
Thanks Russ
I will begin tonite – with my 6 most important things to do
thanks for the challenge
see you in a week Dec 17th with the results
E.Page
December 10th, 2009 at 11:28 pm
I WILL DO IT AND PUT MY BEST EFFORT INTO IT. WHAT DO I HAVE TO LOSE? NOTHING!!! BEATS WHAT I’VE BEEN DOING…NOT ENOUGH!!!!
December 10th, 2009 at 11:34 pm
I will see if it works for me!
December 10th, 2009 at 11:41 pm
Thank You Russ, Maybe I will stay on task with this method. See you in a week!!!
December 10th, 2009 at 11:45 pm
Thank you for the advise . I have kind of gotten away from my “To do List ” . Thanks for the great tip. I will be working on your plan starting today.I believe in your program and will start working the plan very soon.Best Regards JTC
December 10th, 2009 at 11:50 pm
Russ:
Thanks for the advice. I have used a similar technique for personal tasks and found it very helpful. For example, I would list errands I needed to run on a particular day and then prioritize them by most efficient travel to get them done, so there was no backtracking. Last Saturday, I visited 5 stores, accomplished my tasks and was back home in 2 hours, because I planned it out. If unplanned, this could have easily taken 3 hours. It really is satisfying to mark the tasks as accomplished. I usually highlight them in bright yellow rather than cross them off. That way I can still read them later. The idea of a small note pad or daytimer is very good. I definitely accept your challenge and will report back to you on my success.
Thank you,
Ron Russ,
One of your future success stories.
December 11th, 2009 at 12:09 am
this sounds good
December 11th, 2009 at 12:09 am
I did it tonight. I will continue to do it because this is absolutely true. Its nice to know I am beginning to think like a professional entrepreneur.
December 11th, 2009 at 1:08 am
Dear Russ,
Thank you for the enlightenment.
December 11th, 2009 at 1:14 am
This is a great way to help enhancing our associates network marketing strategies to reach out across the aisles to make a different within achievement.
Thanks Russ D.
December 11th, 2009 at 1:17 am
“To Do List”
It should work if you stick to it.
December 11th, 2009 at 2:17 am
i loved the blog i feel this is one of the best businesses i can ever own i been having financial problem but i will take you up on one of your offers really soon thanks for the tip i will start to do that right about now.
December 11th, 2009 at 2:18 am
I accept your challenge, not because I doubt the results but because I think most of us could stand to be a bit more organized and productive.
Richard Gostovich
December 11th, 2009 at 2:18 am
I will try it. Thank you for the tip.
December 11th, 2009 at 2:20 am
Any sort of structure can probably help.
Thanks,
Dan
December 11th, 2009 at 5:51 am
I am thankful for your inspiration.
I will be successful in this endeavor. I will not give up.
December 11th, 2009 at 6:49 am
GOOD NEWS AND I THANK YOU SO MUCH. BUT I NEED HELP, THANK FOR THE TIPS.
December 11th, 2009 at 6:56 am
Hi Russ,
Thank you for going out of your way to help me put things in my perspective. My boss
always has me write in my daily book what I have to do for him. Most times I get things done the same day. Since I do have a realestate license I would really like to come on board with you. It would be a great asset for me. Maybe I would not have to work so many hours. Help!!!!!!!
December 11th, 2009 at 7:43 am
I will give it a try nothing beats a try but another try.
December 11th, 2009 at 7:59 am
Hi Russ,
Just read your blog, most of us have probably herd that story before but never new the origin of it. thanks for the information GREAT STUFF..
December 11th, 2009 at 8:04 am
Thanks, I’ll give it a try.
December 11th, 2009 at 8:14 am
Russ,
Thanks that might be something to help figure out how to get started each day
December 11th, 2009 at 8:45 am
Russ , that makes a lot sense. i will try to make it apply to me , maybe this will get me started in this business. Thanks, Ray Wilson
December 11th, 2009 at 9:04 am
This Sounds Excellent I’ll try it.
Merry Chrismas all,and thankyou.
December 11th, 2009 at 9:21 am
I will try this out to see how it work.
As a former sales rep i use to do a list
before i start my daily routine.Thanks for the
tip.
December 11th at9.36am.
December 11th, 2009 at 9:34 am
I have been using this for years and yes it does work!! I am on my second mailing, still searching for the first note deal but we are well ahead of schedule. Merry Christmas everyone!!
December 11th, 2009 at 9:41 am
This is a wonderful idea and I have used it in the past. I think I will start using it again see you next week.
December 11th, 2009 at 9:50 am
perfect, I am going to try this.. I’m getting into the habit of writing things down so i can remember everything.. this idea is better 1 thing at a time
December 11th, 2009 at 10:17 am
perfect, I’m try this, trying to get in the habit of writing thing down so i don’t forget it. this idea is better, tackle 1 thing at a time…love it
December 11th, 2009 at 10:21 am
This is very informative information for all. I’ll make sure from this day forward I use this technique in my everyday life and also suggest it to others. Thanks, Russ
P.S. still working on a note deal.
December 11th, 2009 at 10:32 am
Thanks for the tip…..i will have to try it tonight…
December 11th, 2009 at 10:35 am
Thanks, this sounds like a terrific plan to light a fire under me.
December 11th, 2009 at 10:45 am
I will try this. I will let you know results.
December 11th, 2009 at 10:47 am
Dear Russ:
Thanks for the tip. I will give it a try. it should help in my “never quit attitude.”
December 11th, 2009 at 11:01 am
It does my heart well to recieve this mail.I am reminded that you all really care about our success and that your still there to help those struggling in one way or another.Slowly but surely I am still at it.You will hear from me in a week.This will improve matters for certain.Talk to you soon.
December 11th, 2009 at 11:26 am
I am a new Protege student, and I put my list of 6 items last night. I accomplished all of them in a short 3 hours. I thought they would take 2 days. I ve owned a construction company for 7 years and never applied such an easy principal. Mmmm I wonder what I will do the rest of the day. Thanks Russ
December 11th, 2009 at 11:50 am
thank you for sending me your e-mails. Even though, I still am in a limbo to commit to a business of notes. Perhaps, I do not trust myself enough, being able to do it.
My “school note books”, I use for the past 30 years, for listings of my activity each day. It keeps the day and work organized! YET, One has to be flexible enough, not to INSIST to complete ALL, when a break is call for. Dasha,
Have a Healthy year, hope you cycle a lot.
Yes, I wish to have my website, but don’t, how to go about it.
December 11th, 2009 at 12:25 pm
That sounds good, I will try it in all aspects of my life. This will really come in handy with me planning my wedding. I just need help with my first note deal.
Alina
December 11th, 2009 at 1:08 pm
I use this technique on the weeks and days i have a lot to do and when i find myself overwhelmed. I could probably benefit from following this
advice. Thank you.
December 11th, 2009 at 1:11 pm
I accept the “plan your work and work your plan” challenge and will back in 7 days. Great idea!
December 11th, 2009 at 1:15 pm
Hey Russ, Thank you for the challenge,it has made me take a long hard look at my self. I accept your challenge. I have made my list.
December 11th, 2009 at 1:57 pm
Will give it a try.Thank you for your consistancy.
December 11th, 2009 at 2:00 pm
Really like what 23. Mike said. What great lessons he learned in the Navy. I too learned this process when in May Kay. Recently a discussion with my grown son included his comment. “Mom, you always succeed.” While I like to think that’s accurate, realisticaly, I do understand that success is staying on track, and on task…on purpose. That’s one of the reasons I am excited about this opportunity. I see where success may be determined by, yes, prioritized 6 most important things.
Thanks to you Dalbey Team.
Christiethegal
December 11th, 2009 at 3:05 pm
I’ll will challaenge myself and work on my list and put this into action. the lst will consist of nothing but issues that will affect my life and my famiies life for the better.
December 11th, 2009 at 3:23 pm
Ok I Will Try This Fou A Week!!!!!!!!!!!!!
December 11th, 2009 at 3:49 pm
Wounderful suggestion to follow in todays busy world. I will do it!!!
December 11th, 2009 at 4:16 pm
Very true Russ it does work I have use it for writing down my goals,at work,and at home and it has worked very well.Thanks.
Tony A.
December 11th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
RUSS, I am going to accept this challenge as I have used this method before and it really does work. I get more accomplished in a day when I apply this rule.
December 11th, 2009 at 5:03 pm
Thanks for the encouragement. Will work on it. My question is “how to and what to” prioritize. So many things happen in a day. Sure, I do place importance on some of the things to do, ie.: attend 9:00 am webinar for building websites. Which is why I got started on it since I needed a website that I could control to promote my business. I am now into my 2nd website since I found I liked doing it. I am trying to become a certified consultant for building sites. I have found that I wanted to promote my website and have written 3 Ezine articles relating to promissory notes, (finance), structured settlements, etc. (see: ezine mary pacheco for my articles, hopefully, more to come. Still haven’t done a “complete note” but I still have hope for me. Thanks for your updates.
December 11th, 2009 at 7:53 pm
Russ,
I will try this for a week. I try every day to practice to make a list and get everything done on it. But sometimes there is not enough time in a day. I’ll let you know in a week how it goes.
Terri
December 11th, 2009 at 8:32 pm
Writing things down to do is easy. Keeping mentally focused is the flaw. Thank goodness for tomorrows.
December 11th, 2009 at 10:20 pm
RUSS:
I accept your challenge. I will advise of the results in one week. sincerely ERIC
December 12th, 2009 at 12:01 am
I’m lost and I don’t quite understand can you please help me get started in finding my first note?
December 12th, 2009 at 12:53 am
I will try this,for my work,Iuse this when I go to the marke.
December 12th, 2009 at 2:01 am
Hello Russ and everyone,
I have been at doing business for over forty years in the business of developing, operating and selling real estate in Boston , Ma.I think that the list being set up the night before is part of the trick to to getting things done, I find that there is always too many things to do and which to do first and being able to let the humdrum go is or will be a new chapter in my life. Let’s try it! Stop procrastinating may also enter into the playing field. Thanks for your insight.
December 12th, 2009 at 10:23 am
This is a practice I used when I was a mechanical designer, which work for me very well. In little ways, I still use it, but
I will get back in the habit of instituting this back in my everyday business affairs again. Thanks for the reminder.
December 12th, 2009 at 11:11 am
I will try for the next 15 days Thanks Russ
December 12th, 2009 at 2:51 pm
That’s awesome article !!!!!!!!!!
December 12th, 2009 at 3:20 pm
Russ:
I appologize for the delay, I just returned from family business…
This is a super reminder to stay focused and organized…
This article will be something we should all share with our opt-in ‘E-mail’ customers and network partners! I would like to add it to my website today! May I do so?!!
December 12th, 2009 at 5:13 pm
Challenge accepted and will report in a week.
December 12th, 2009 at 5:30 pm
Russ. I totally agree that this method works.i have just lately started this method due to the
fact that i am in Iraq,and i am 8 hrs ahead of
the States.so i needed something that would work
it is so ironic that you have posted this on your blog.so i am going to continue with the
plan that way i will never fail
W.Horton
December 13th, 2009 at 8:24 am
Great stuff’ Im really going to try this and Im going to make this work for me because I wanna get in this business so bad’ I can’t wait. Your teaching is what keeps me going, please dont stop at lease until I get going in the note business thanks.
December 13th, 2009 at 10:40 am
Thanks for this timely reminder about Ivy Lee and the productivity tool. I have been doing lists for years, however, my lists were always more than 6 items. A gentle nudge to keep it to 6 action items and create a new list each morning instead of using the same long list for weeks will certainly help with not feeling overwhelmed.
December 13th, 2009 at 11:31 am
I would like to try however I have no business at the moment,but I am going to try anyways,good advice.
Thanks Russ
December 13th, 2009 at 2:24 pm
Dear Russ, I am just beginning to learn about my computor. I will put that very good advice to work I did that years ago when I saised my 7 children ran my seamstress business. Somehow I forgot about it. Russ I really need to do the Cash Flow business. I have a friend comming to help me,next week.
December 13th, 2009 at 4:46 pm
I will give this a try. It can’t hurt. It might even work. I have multiple lists that I use every day and none of them ever get finished. They just keep rolling over and over….and get bigger and….thank you for the help.
December 13th, 2009 at 7:15 pm
Extremely priceless guidance. Will use it!!!
December 13th, 2009 at 10:09 pm
Yes, I will accept your challenge and try for one week
December 13th, 2009 at 11:25 pm
Sounds like a winner to me
December 14th, 2009 at 12:32 pm
Ok, Mr. Dalbey I will give it a try.
December 14th, 2009 at 1:17 pm
I never did this before, I like the way it sounds. I’m going to try it with my daily routines, and Winning in the Cash Flow Business.
December 14th, 2009 at 5:39 pm
Russ,
Great article. When I was a project manager for a mechanical company we had some training on this very subject. At times I got so over whelmed that I didn’t know what to do. I used the index cards to prioritize and help get organized and it worked. I am going to start using them again.
Thanks for the advice.
December 15th, 2009 at 8:52 am
Thanks for the tip. I have been using Outlook to help me list my tasks. I do not know if this is as good as writing things down but I spend a lot of time online.
I have seen US Naval officers and NCO’s use a simple pocket sized note pad to keep track of the things they need to get done. It is fun and interesting to look back at what you have written.
I found a note once where I said I wanted to teach or work in Environmental Science which I had written several years before. At the time I found the paper, I was teaching a college course which I had developed for online classes. What makes this especially interesting is that I had never taken an Environmental Science class in my life but with my life experiences I was able to make a good case for being qualified.
I know that Russ is on key when he talks about the power of creation.
Thanks Russ!
December 15th, 2009 at 5:09 pm
My 19 yr old daughter does this and it works very well. She’s already done with her Christmas shopping and I just barely put the tree up! I don’t know where she learned this, certainly not from me but I guess you can learn something from your kids. I will try it.
December 15th, 2009 at 8:40 pm
I’am on it for a week. Thank’s Russ,
December 16th, 2009 at 10:18 am
Russ, Just read your Blog today, Will start using your suggestion tomorrow. Will let you know how it goes. Michael Drummond
December 16th, 2009 at 6:24 pm
I like that better than the one I have been using… I would list each item with a time frame and found myself skipping task to stay with the time frame thus not accomplishing my goals for the day… I see how easy this will be…
Thanks…
December 16th, 2009 at 10:12 pm
I already write daily lists, but mine have about 20 line items and I get to as many as possible in any order. If I tackle one and there is a hold up, I move to the next for the sake of completing all tasks. I will take your challenge, lessen my list and complete each task prior to moving to the next. Ill let you know!! Thanks
December 17th, 2009 at 2:34 pm
Hey Russ,
Thanks for the tips, I have been making the to do lists but not 1 – 6 prioritizing them. I’ll try for a week and I’m sure I’ll like what I see. Even now just thinking about it I’m positive it’s steps in the right direction. Putting this into action now!
Thanks
December 18th, 2009 at 2:12 pm
All I have to say, is this WORKS! I wrote down 6 pending tasks that needed urgent attention last week, and accomplished them all ahead of schedule. So I tore up that list and started a new task list of 6. And that list will be completed by Sunday. THIS REALLY WORKS! Plus its doable. Anyone can commit to 6 things to do a week. Wow, just imagine the possibilities of the Note deals I will have if I just keep my post cards out weekly. Thanks Russ.
December 18th, 2009 at 3:37 pm
Thank you for the gentle nudge to create a priority list of 6 items. I have been trying this and it has been working very well for me. I get things done, yet what’s so great about this is that I don’t feel overwhelmed with the many things left to do – I see that I accomplished 6 things and then some extras each day and my attitude has been very positive – not negative and overwhelmed any more! Keeping the list to 6 has been the ticket. Thanks Russ!
December 20th, 2009 at 8:59 pm
HELLO MR.RUSS I AM TRYING MY BEST BUT NOTHING AS OF YET,BUT I AM GOING TOO KEEP TRYING CAUSE I DO BELEIVE.THANK YOU SO MUCH ,FROM DALLAS ,TX
December 23rd, 2009 at 12:35 am
I have been doing it for years otherwise i would spend all my time reading or in the garden (I still regress from time to time).
December 23rd, 2009 at 3:05 pm
The greatest books I have ever read was the Master Key by Charles F. Haanel and The law of Attraction by James and Ester Hicks
December 25th, 2009 at 5:46 am
I love the ideal of writing down six thing and getting one at a time until all are done.My first is to get my note business up and running with Russ help. I do from NEW YORK
December 25th, 2009 at 3:53 pm
Russ,
Thank you so much for the tip.
December 25th, 2009 at 9:23 pm
I use lists all the time to coordinate items. This is a good challenge to proceed daily for success. I will be using and incorporating this daily.
December 25th, 2009 at 11:37 pm
Just a 1 week challenge? Makes that big of a difference? Your on! Like lug nut on a Pinto- so hold on this might be one ugly, bumpy ride. lol!!!!
December 26th, 2009 at 11:46 pm
sorry for being late. my mom passed away from liver and lung cancer november 1 09. i have not done this since she passed, but now i am willing to get back into it. i do set goals everyday, but that was not one of them to honestly say. i will contact you this coming week of dec 28th. k . u are awesome merry xmas and happy new year!!!
December 27th, 2009 at 10:53 am
dear :russ i realy like this ideal and i am going to give it try maybe it will get me going on a note deal.
December 28th, 2009 at 3:10 pm
i fell off the wagon.
Thank you Russ.
i plan to return to :
daily -to-do-list, with prioritization.
A great habit that molds the character,unerringly destined for great things.
December 29th, 2009 at 11:21 pm
I have just read this on December 30th. I read Brian Tracy’s “Eat that frog” Now I must seriously follow through
thanks for reminder. I must be consistent.
Yvonne
December 30th, 2009 at 11:33 am
Very nice site!
January 1st, 2010 at 11:26 am
I use this method whenever I have a lot of things that need to be done. When I had a regular M – F, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM job, my daughter was in school and taking harp lessons, plus all of the normal house keeping things that have to be done, if I didn’t keep a list of things according to their priority and work my way down it, I would have gone crazy! It also helps if you make a list when you have a lot of errands that you need to run. If you sit down and decide which ones need to be done 1st, 2nd , etc. either by which ones you will come to first, second, etc. enroute, not only do you get more accomplished, but you save on gas, time, and money by not criss-crossing across town to get the errands accomplished. I also make out a grocery list and try to put the items down in the order that you run into them as you go through the store. You don’t find yourself spending as much time in the store, at least until they rearrange the store like they inevitably do from time to time. I have come to the conclusion that they do it so that you see more things that you would like to have, and buy more. I think that they just waste my time, and time is too precious of a commodity to be wasted! When they do that, the best thing to do is to ask where things are now instead of looking for them. You really can save a lot of time by asking. The more time you save, the more you can accomplish.
January 3rd, 2010 at 12:28 am
Hey, You guys:
Hello, to you all. I really like the messages that have been posted here, you all seems like you got it altogether, or you are getting it together,but what about those of use whom can not do a routine to save their lives…? I understand the concept, very well, but I have realized a long time ago, that if I planned things early or in advance, it never works out for me. Like for instance, one time It was a holiday, I thought I would try to be like my big sister and my sister in laws, whom always seems like they have everything together, and they can put together a party out of this world and personally catered by them. So, this time I thought that I would hoste it and start early on things so that I could be a head of everything like they do. Well, to my dismay, things when I started working on them early, was not working out for me, when I gave up on it and waited almost until the very week of the party, everything started to coming together for me, like it was second hand to me, and then the party went well, plus I catered it myself as well.
I’ve tried working Mary Kay in the past as well, but the regiments of the program of wearing the make-up I could not get into at all, because I am a women that does not like to wear make up at all, at the most when I call myself dressing up, the most make up I do is maybe a lip stick and possible eye liner, all the other stuff you can forget it because I have no clue has to how to do it and to make it look good on me is an Not!
I say all of this to say, it may seem simple but, how can a mother single mother of (6)six, (1) young adult, (1) college student (2) teenagers (1) 12 year old and (1) nine year old, a homeschooler; and a entrepernuer, multitasking is the name of the game and doing everything at what seems to be the last minute is the only way things would and can get done, no other income coming in except that of which I get from small independent contracting work, no other assistance house or otherwise, and no real family to be able to count on to help us out. Now, tell me how this can be done and I will get on it right away…..
Looking forward to any and all comments and suggestions.
As Always in Parting…..May the Love of God Guide Your Every Footsteps……
January 9th, 2010 at 2:08 pm
I can see that I definitely need to invest in some index cards. In school I never really got into them but maybe I really missed out. I will try this and the goal thing
January 11th, 2010 at 9:16 pm
I have actually been doing this for the last 10 years of my life and along with keeping me on track with my projects and tasks, I sleep better at night. It clears my mind of expectations I have of myself the next day. It was wonderful to hear that successful businessmen also use this technique. I have been sitting on the Cash Flow books and videos far too long; so I have decided to place this on my list of things to accomplish. Thanks!
January 13th, 2010 at 9:51 am
Franklin/Covey Day Planner utilizes a similar process by allowing you to prioritize your daily tasks as A, B, or C priority tasks. Next, you place a number next to all the A priority tasks with number 1 being the most important, 2 being the 2nd most important, etc. This allows you to not only ABC prioritize, but also rank each level of priority with order of importance. I have used this system for years and have found it to be an invaluable tool for daily achievement as well as extremely valuable for planning follow ups with pin point accuracy (when someone says “can you call me back in 2 weeks, the task is forwarded 2 weeks and forgotten about until that day). One of the “side benefits” of maintaining this type of organization is that the mind is freed of the worry of remembering to do something (no energy is required to remember to follow up because the mind know that you have placed that worry into “your other mind” which is your planner system. Having this freedom in your mind will enable you to be less stressed and you should notice that productivity increases and new ideas begin flowing through your thoughts more frequently. This is a result of the mind being less cluttered with worry and stress. There are a number of other systems available similar to Franklin/Covey that will work just fine. I endorse the Franklin/Covey system only because I have used it for so long (around 25 years).
January 14th, 2010 at 2:01 pm
not going to try it … going to do it! see you in a week.
January 25th, 2010 at 2:51 pm
I’ll give this a try and let you know how it worked for me. 01/25/2010
January 25th, 2010 at 11:01 pm
I have been doing Marykay for 5 years and the six most important has helped me dramatically. I enjoy crossing them off the list and I feel inspired when I complete them all. It does make a big difference in my daily routine to keep a list of to do’s, helps me to be accountable.
January 31st, 2010 at 2:09 pm
Dear Russ, Thank you for thinking about me. I have started the $226,490.00 program. This week I am sending out postcards to 250 of my leads
Vernon Magnus
February 24th, 2010 at 9:48 am
Hey Vernon did u get replies to your mailings? How did u get your list of 250 note holders? Have you sold any notes?
June 30th, 2010 at 10:04 pm
I already do that and it works.
March 29th, 2010 at 2:54 pm
I am really bad in proritizing. I keep missing all my targets. I have list things and let others get in the way, never following through. I will start today and get back to you on April 7th. Thank you for the tip, I even forgot I had read it before. Bad, I know.
March 30th, 2010 at 1:47 pm
This is great advice which I learned from my father who was born during the tail-end of the Great Depression and was in the military (Korean War). He taught me to write “To Do” Lists to keep myself organized and to write and sign important, business documents in black ink (LOL!). I still write these lists when I am running errands throughout the day or shopping (grocery, clothing, etc.), and typically feel a great sense of accomplishment when I can cross items off the list. I have since been more lenient about signing documents in blue or black ink, though
I think that throwing the task lists out at the end of the day is more productive then carrying them over until the next day. I will have to try that technique and see how it works. Thanks!
March 31st, 2010 at 11:29 pm
I have been using bright colored index cards for several years to write daily/weekly to do lists on. It is very helpful. Also if I throw the list in my purse I can find it fast when I need it because of the flouresent colors! There is a lot of satisfaction in crossing things off the list too!
May 10th, 2010 at 9:44 pm
I have a “to do list” which i follow. I like the story and will make that list even better.
May 11th, 2010 at 6:43 pm
Yes – this really works; I’ve done it thru the years personally and also in previous business startups. When the schedule becomes hectic, the to-do list helps me to keep from forgetting things that sometimes have a time-deadline. This can be great to meet paperwork deadlines.
May 20th, 2010 at 6:11 pm
Hi, Russ and all,
I am brand new to this business and have been blown away (positive)with all of the tips and secrets shared for explosive results in our lives and businesses.
I will start doing this prioritized listing tonight!! I will let you know what happens in a week. I have a lot going on in my life (taking care of my parents) so I most asuredly need the focus!
Thank you ever so much, Russ.
May 27th, 2010 at 7:11 pm
this is true and it is also called being organized.
June 4th, 2010 at 12:43 pm
Okay, being organized, detailed and focused. I already practice these habits. I list what needs to be done every day and mark off as it is accomplished. This helps reduce some stress, because it is off my mind, being on paper to refer to and I don’t have to worry about remembering all that I have to do each day. I just work towards getting it done and off the list.
June 22nd, 2010 at 3:17 pm
I was a shoe shine service operator and not only does it help to write down your daily chores and attend to them one by one,but you can use this system to program your mind to find answers to your problems, put you in the right place at the right time,and many other feats of personnal interest in your daily life.Start this program and add to it other avenues of interest(s) and perfect them also.You will be very surprised at how easily the mind is programmable to be in tune with the world to get you what you WANT in your life. Certified Cashflow Service System is a product of such mental programming and I am all the more better for my use of daily notes.
June 22nd, 2010 at 8:57 pm
hey russ that’s great idea for me to i like for shore. I also like google thing to get leads I’ve been haviing unmotive people in my life some the in my life as riped up my books cause i was trying so hard to do something with my life and did not like that at all they did not wont to see me grow and be happy before them or if at all cause they broke and unhappy in there life they want see everybody else unhappy but that’s going to me down cause i got a family that’s looking up to me and i will be sucessful no dout about it thanks aging russ you always motivate me to get busy can’t wait to see you and here from you.
June 26th, 2010 at 11:04 am
When I lived in the Alaskan Wilderness I had to use that very same list. Mother nature can give you some challenges that, for me, could only be overcome by completing one task at the time. Essential survival. Thank’s for reminding me!
June 30th, 2010 at 12:47 pm
1 Get list of at least 400 note holders from the County Recorders office.
2 Purchase Stamps, envelopes, printer ink and mail out the 1st contact letter to all contacts
3 Contact attorneys, Real estate agents for more note holders.
4 Turn off the TV Study the Russ Dalbey books Passionately and listen to the CD,s reapedly
5 When a contact responds Call and gather all info and submit the details and do everything needed to make the deal.
6 Rake in the cash. Repeat 1-6
June 30th, 2010 at 9:59 pm
Thank You Russ,
Your right about simple things people ignore.
Me for an example: I can have something so simple right in front of me and not even see it.
I have had this newsletter maybe a month now and just now finding this out.
I hope I have more simple ideas coming my way.
Shirley Kinslow
July 9th, 2010 at 2:45 am