Three months after your work is done with a client, what differences would you like to see?
As a time clutter consultant, it’s useful to think about the end-result. In other words, what do you want to happen once your work with your client is complete, your bill has been paid and you have sailed off into the golden sunset?
Most who are new to this field want results that are nothing short of magical. They wish for a client who will implement everything they are told without delay, and arrive at a perfect system within a matter of months, if not weeks, or days.
They are likely to be disapponted by what they find in reality.
Because time management systems are made up of habits, practices and rituals, our clients like most humans beings, have a tough time in making changes stick. It takes time. As Mark Twain said: “Habits must be coaxed down the stairs one step at time.”
Once your consulting gig is over, therefore, you probably won’t leave a client in a static state that is unchanging. Insted, here’s the very best place in which you can leave your clients:
1. They have a plan for gradually changing habits, practices and rituals that lasts at least 6-12 months.
2. They are implementing new routines that are are supported by their environment.
3. They stand ready, willing and able to implement an upgrade in the future as soon as the circumstances require it.
4. They are constantly tweaking their habit-change support system so that they maintain forward momentum.
5. They welcome new technology, and the opportunity to see if it can help them put in an upgrade.
At this point they are fully self-sufficient and you, the consultant, can walk away knowing that you have given them all they need to be successful.
What do you think? Is it too much to ask for?
P.S. If you have an interest in using the three month difference to increase your revenue, here are some further thoughts on how to be an effective time management consultant in order to achieve that goal.