Time management is a huge issue these days. Everyone is struggling with this issue. It seems to me that the issue is in the way we think about our roles. We see our goals to accomplish as something so large that we’re immediately overwhelmed. That’s the way we view things. The good thing is that this is a simple thing to alter.
Do you see things in a big way? Reduce them. Let’s look at three aspects of managing time.
1. Priorities:
Everything can’t be considered a priority. It’s more urgent. There may be lots of things you’d like to complete; you aren’t able to do them in one go. The pressure of trying to accomplish everything at once adds to feeling overwhelmed.
a. Choose three (at least)
Consider all the tasks you’d like to finish and select three of them. Place the rest in the parking lot to tackle later.
b. Break each priority down into smaller steps. The smaller these steps more simple it is to complete them. Start with the basics and work from there. Don’t be focused on the end.
c. Eliminate time suckers. Examine how you are spending your time. Are there activities you perform that consume a lot of time? Perhaps more than you need. A good example of this could be checking your email. It’s not necessary to keep an eye on your email every single day. It’s not even necessary to check it early in the morning. Choose a time to examine the device around mid-morning and another time in the late afternoon.
2. Schedule
a. Write those steps down in your schedule. Put them on your calendar in 30-minute increments. Similar to smaller steps being simpler, shorter intervals of time are generally more manageable.
b. Create visual representations of your progress and hang this on your wall. Being able to view your progress in color makes it seem more real and impressive.
3. Communicate
a. The most crucial aspect of managing time is to implement a monitoring system. This system is able to keep track of what’s effective, what’s not, or progress getting achieved. The results are then made available to all parties interested. Anybody who can have an impact on the achievement of a company’s objectives should be kept informed.
b. In terms of keeping people informed, sharing results and thoughts is equally crucial. Even if you’re a sole-preneur, you must be involved in the communication of the essential aspects of growth for your business. Find a mentor or an accountability partner, someone you know, a colleague to have discussions with them about what’s happening.
Each of these suggestions can help you stay on track towards your goals in business. They all work in tandem. Apply them and keep an eye on them. Be prepared to alter the rules if you come across something that is working extremely well or isn’t working at all. Find out what is most effective with you personally, in your personal style, as well as your business. It will be clear that time is yours to play.
Diane Helbig is a Professional Coach and President of Seize This Day Coaching. She works one-on-one or in small groups with small-business owners, entrepreneurs, salespeople, and entrepreneurs to assist them in developing effective strategies for business development. Together they are open to new possibilities.
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