The issue of time management typically has different goals for each individual. Here are some ways that you can manage your time more effectively to reach your goals and not fall short which happens to most people most of the time. These suggestions will help you manage your time effectively. First of all you will need to make a list of all the things you need to do/want to do to complete your goals in allotted time frames. For each time period it is necessary to put the items from your list into the following categories:
(Urgent - definite time limit)
Tasks or actions that take precedence over everything else, because if they are not done it will cause further problems. Examples are tax returns which are due, reports for work, meetings or appointments, repairs, health issues and activities to which you have committed yourself within a certain time frame.
(Important - no definite time frame)
These are often actions with no particular time limit. However if you do not do them they will probably not get done. Examples are a special course you want to do, spending more quality time with the family, writing that book, overdue medical checkup or that project/hobby you started but never seem to have time for.
(Not Urgent/Not Important – Saying NO) – Many people have a hard time saying “NO” to others requests that literally suck their own time away therefore interrupting their schedule therefore affecting their ability to accomplish their goals. You will need to be aware when you have time to help someone or not and have the fortitude to tell people “NO”
(Efficiency - managing your time)
These are things that need to be done for you to operate in an efficient way and be productive at the same time. Examples are organizing your files, getting rid of clutter, cleaning, exercise and time for relaxation.
No professional sports team would send a team out onto the field without a game plan. I am quite certain that a couple of my favorite coaches Mike Krzyzewski or Bill Belichick would enter a contest without having a good time management plan especially when if a game came down to the wire for we all know that many sports contests been won with the clock! A schedule for time management is like a game plan. If you have no plan, other people's actions will probably determine your priorities. The most productive use of time comes from planning ahead and trying to stick to the plan.
The proper way to instigate an effective time management process will be to do all the urgent tasks, one important task and one task that will add to your efficiency for each week. After a month you will have learnt a practical method for using your time wisely. If you learn how to manage your time effectively it can be your friend instead of your adversary.
Steven Stasczak is a motivational speaker who facilitates professional speaking training and team building events/workshops. He spent his earlier career as a top business to business sales manager before beginning coaching and training around the U.S. professionally.