Use extra time to broaden knowledge, skills

I really enjoy following people that are constantly evolving and growing.

As they say, there is no point in reinventing the wheel - see what works, and do that.

One of my good friends who I have known since we were at school together back in the late '70s/early '80s is the best time manager I know. I am in awe of how she can compartmentalise her day and achieve so much in these chunks of time.

While she will say that she is not really that productive, I would say there is plenty of evidence that would suggest otherwise.

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Along with her husband - who I also went to school with - she runs an amazingly productive agribusiness.

Outwardly it would appear I get a lot done, though I am not sure that is always the case, as I do have non-productive parts of my day.

I admire those who can just push on and concentrate wholly on one task at a time.

For those people that can do this, that is a way to supercharge results.

Having a passion for something is a sure way to get things done, as we all like doing the jobs we enjoy.

Whether these particular tasks are the most important ones is another matter entirely.

These task may be crucial, depending on what your overall plan is, and how well you rank tasks in order of the biggest bang for your buck.

Agriculture hasn't been affected as much by physical distancing, as this comes naturally in the country.

But, for those whose Saturdays were full of sport, this has certainly changed their dynamic a bit.

I think there is a real opportunity for people who want to learn something new or upgrade their skills in this time of forced distancing.

Online there are countless videos of the various ways that people are amusing themselves. Some of these are very clever, and there are some very talented people.

I suspect there is a silent cohort of people that are using the time to increase their knowledge and skills in an area that will ultimately pay big dividends in the long run.

For anyone with a strategic goal or a long-term business or personal plan, this could be their time to shine.

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Most likely, this task is not top of mind, otherwise it would have already been completed.

It could be getting your production figures more organised, or forward budgeting completed, or working through a possible succession plan, or further study - there are so many options.

This is a perfect time to upskill and set yourself up for success, and come out the other side of the pandemic ready for the rubber to hit the road. To achieve this, it will take discipline and time.

Anything is possible if you are willing to put in the time and effort.

In the future, some agribusinesses may reflect on this time and realise that was the moment their business was set up to succeed.

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