A-B-C's
of Time Management
Here's a
step-by-step plan for how to more effectively manage your time:
1. Write
a daily "To Do" list at the same time every day. Most people
do this first thing in the morning or just before they go to sleep in
the evening. Brainstorm everything you need to do in that day on this
list.
2. Review
the list and break large tasks down into smaller tasks.
3. Prioritize
the list using the following method:
It's an
"A" priority if…
- It supports
a personal / professional long-term goal.
- It is
in support of other people your work with or have relationships with.
- It is
both urgent and important.
- If you
are unsure, ask yourself, "what terrible thing would happen if
I didn't do this today?"
It's a
"B" priority if…
- It is
important, but doesn't meet the "A" criteria of urgency.
- Time,
a waiting period, will usually elevate "B's" to "A's"
or drop them down to "C's."
It's
a "C" priority if…
- It's a
nice thing to do, but really not that important.
- Be ruthless.
Only give yourself one "A-1" priority. You may have an "A-2"
and "A-3," but only top priorities get this category.
4. Delegate
those tasks that would more appropriately be done by someone else. On
your "To Do" list, write the name of the person to whom you
are delegating the task.
5. Schedule
your day. Decide when to do your "A-1" first. Consider your
daily energy cycle so that you do your most important or demanding task(s)
when you are most alert. Schedule your tasks evenly throughout the day,
allowing time for unexpected events should they arise. You do not want
to have every moment of your day rigidly planned out.
Additional
Time Management Tips
- Assign
a deadline for each and every task or project.
- Whenever
possible, work on one task at a time and work on it until it is completed.
- Make "personal
time" an "A" priority everyday.
- Respect
your physical and mental limitations by learning how to say "no"
when asked for favors that impede progress toward achieving your priorities.
- Be prepared
for waits and make "waiting time" into useful time.
- Strive
for balance - schedule time for what you want to do as well as for what
you need to do.
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