“Getting Things Done”

Tips and Techniques for Getting Things Done

WEEK ONE

The final presentation on that first day of presentations was Clinton Urling’s presentation on ways to accomplish goals. As members of various organisations, and as members of the M.A.D. group the participants were all – in various ways – trying to accomplish things. But, so often, when faced with challenges, new territories to explore or setbacks which can seem debilitating the question of HOW to accomplish all that we imagine becomes an issue.

As former president of the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the founder of Blue CAPS Mr Urling had much to share about how he has not just been a “leader” but someone who has used techniques of adaptive leadership to effect change and development in his organisation. Like the members of our group Mr Urling has strove to Make A Difference.

Mr Urling shared a host of salient tips and points for effecting change:

1. Ideas and actions are bigger than the organisation
2. Stay focused on the work and goals of the organisation
3. Think big but implement gradually
4. “Every battle is won or lost before it is fought.”
5. Pay attention to detail
6. Keep working
7. The press is your friend, so use them
8. Embrace change and be willing to adapt and challenge the status quo
9. Do not listen to the noise or take criticisms from back channels personally
10. Always thank people – immediately
11. Try not to serve alone – COLLABORATE
12. Maintain openness, high integrity and honesty
13. Read at least one newspaper a day

The members of M.A.D. found much to retain in his points. The need for heavy planning before any real change is effective was most instructive as was the point to pay attention to detail. For us, Making a Change is no ad hoc or reckless action – it is a system, focused, planned initiative to successfully implement positive changes in our societies. And for this change to occur we must work together with persons from all facets of that society because unless we collaborate with each other and use our collective attributes to complement each other we will not be able to effect constructive and lasting change.