Cut it Out! Do Less to Accomplish More.

Don't ask "what more do I have to do?" Ask, instead, what you should do less.

When looking for ways to can get ahead or improve one's situation, most people start by think of what they need to add in their life.   "I need experience," "I need new skills," "I need to take a class," "I need to do more of this," or "I need to do that better," are some of the thoughts that run through their heads.

However, this is not always the most effective approach...

Before you go adding more things to your life, ensure that you're making the most of your time and that your existing activities are positioning you for future success.   Any activity you engage in should bring positive value to your life.  If it does not bring value, then it should be cut out.

Thus, your attention should not be on what you can add to your daily routine, but on what you can remove. 

As one who embraces their Inner Sage, you must be aware of your actions and conscious of your daily activities at all times.  You must think about what you're doing every moment of every day.  This does not mean you must track or document every step, but rather to simply be conscious of your activity.

So many people waste hours of their life without ever considering the results of their actions.  "Where did the time go?" is common phrase these people ask themselves.  You may asked yourself that same question.  But the trick is not just to know where your time goes, but ensure it is time well spent.

Is watching the final episode of American Idol bringing value to your career?  If no, then cut it out.

Is gambling on the basketball game putting more money in your wallet?  If no, then cut it out.

Is eating that candy bar helping you lose weight and stay fit?  If no, then cut it out.

You get the point.

In any given moment, think about what you're doing and consider the impact if you continue the activity.  Is this activity bringing value to my life (or career, team, family, etc.)?  If I continue this activity will it have a positive impact?

If the answer is "yes," then congratulations, move forward young sage.  BUT, if the answer is "no," then immediately cut it out of your day.  No second guessing that.  If it's not adding value, then cut it right away.