My “Surf or Swim” Time Management Approach

Years ago, my approach to time management was like that of a swimmer. I focused on what was in front of me, got it done and moved on to the next thing. And when life is calmer, like the water in a pool, this approach to time management works well.

But when things get more complicated, all of a sudden it may seem as though you got dropped in the middle of the ocean. Instead of still water, you have waves coming at you from every direction. And this requires a different approach.

In this episode, I’ll teach you the 3 important skills you must learn to take the time management approach of a surfer. 

Show highlights include:

  • What swimmers can teach you about how to approach your daily tasks (5:30)
  • The unmistakable sign you need to change your time management style (10:01)
  • The #1 skill you must master to “surf” effectively (11:18)
  • If you try to surf without this key attribute, you’ll get tossed by the waves (15:26)
  • How to successfully push through the grueling transition from swimmer to surfer (17:27) 

zAs a disclaimer, this episode was recorded prior to the social
distancing impacts around current events.  If any pieces of this episode sound slightly tone deaf, it’s because they were recorded in a world that had a very different tone. It’s amazing how the world can change in just a couple of weeks, isn’t it?

Regardless, I assure you the topic holds up. This episode will help you manage the “ocean of unknown” we’ve been dropped into - so, grab your board and let’s learn how to surf together.....

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https://cherylanneskolnicki.com

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https://cherylanneskolnicki.com/brilliant-balance/

Om Podcasten

You deserve a big, full life and the freedom to enjoy it. The Brilliant Balance Podcast helps women in leadership design their next chapter for sustainable success—without burnout. Every week, host Cherylanne Skolnicki, a leading expert in work-life balance, leadership growth, and mindset coaching, shares ideas, inspiration, and insights to help high-achieving women align their ambition with personal fulfillment. Through conversations on leadership mindset, time management, and personal growth, you'll gain the tools to thrive in both your career and personal life. Whether you're considering a career pivot or craving more time for your personal life, you might find yourself asking: How do I advance my career—without working 24/7? Can I achieve my goals while still having time for my family? How do I stop feeling overwhelmed and start feeling in control? What’s next for me—and how do I design it intentionally? If you’ve ever wondered how to fulfill your potential without breaking your life, this podcast is for you. In addition to sharing her own insights, Cherylanne sits down with experts, thought leaders, and ambitious women who reveal their strategies for burnout recovery, productivity for women, and redefining success on their terms. You’ll love the Brilliant Balance Podcast if you like podcasts like: Unlocking Us or Dare to Lead with Brene Brown, Women at Work by Harvard Business Review, The Midlife with Reshma Saujani, We Can Do Hard Things with Glennon Doyle, The Mel Robbins Podcast, HerMoney with Jean Chatzky, So Money with Farnoosh Torabi