Apparently, I’m now old. Not based on a birthday number, but on the number of specialists I was referred to last month. The crazy thing is, dealing with the medical and insurance system is more stressful than the health issues themselves.
Don’t get me wrong. I’m grateful to live where exceptional care is available, but it’s ironic that along with the advanced medical technology and skills, there’s no clear path to receive the care needed. Where is the breakdown—management, staff, lack of digital systems? Everyone has been kind and courteous, but that doesn’t equate to efficiency and results.
As I pondered this challenge, I thought about the struggle we face when managing home and work projects. Whether it’s planning a remodel, scheduling a trip, managing a household or doctor care, here are five Timely Tips that deliver results.
Timely Tips that deliver results
Photo by Norbert Braun on Unsplash
DEFINE THE GOAL
Know what you're aiming for.
Be specific but not detailed.
Make it measurable and attainable.
Include not only the what, but the why as well.
DETAIL THE PLAN
Methods will vary depending on your preference.
Planning for my doctor care goal included creating a spreadsheet to track the dates, communications, and progress of referrals.
One of my clients is using a mind map to organize her financial goals. This is a good option for the non-linear thinker.
Another client, who is planning a move, opted for a large wipe board to track her tasks and progress.
Whichever method works for you, break down your goal into categories and specific steps.
DETERMINE DEADLINES
Not everything is controllable, as I’m discovering in the medical system. For steps that are, set specific dates to keep moving forward.
For me, it’s assigning a date to make a follow-up call to my insurance for a status update. If you’re moving, it may mean putting dates on your calendar to contact your service providers regarding stop service dates or submitting your change of address to USPS.
Each step needs an assigned date, fluid as they may be at times. If one is missed, reassign a new date and keep moving forward.
DELEGATE
Is there someone you can pull into your project to lighten your load? My insurance broker offered to make a couple calls for me when I hit a roadblock. Review your project plan and look for steps that a family member, support person, or hired hand can do.
Photo by James Fesh on Unsplash
DON'T GIVE UP
After waiting 6 weeks for a specific appointment, it was canceled the day of, saying the referral was coded incorrectly and must be reapplied for.
Most projects will have glitches. Refer to your goal and reflect on why this is important to you. Celebrate victories along the way and the ultimate realization of your goal.
wise words
Don't let what you cannot do interfere with what you can do. --John Wooden