Do you have a time management tip that
has helped you and would like to share it with us? E-mail
your organizing tip along with your name, city, and state.
My
tip is...
Look ahead and back. Start and end your day with a
5-10 minute planning session. If you don't record your thoughts,
it won't be a tool you can use.
Work the numbers. As you look at your list of tasks
for tomorrow, determine priorities. Mark all must-do's with
an A, any should's get a B and things you want done rate a
C. Now number each category by importance.
Identify time bandits. If you lose time with unexpected
interruptions, side trips and Internet searches, either build
more time into your planned schedule or make time elsewhere
for them if they become essential for you.
Arrive early. The stress of lateness takes a huge
toll. When you make this a habit, you can cut down on lines,
get a few phone calls made or mentally prepare for your appointment.
Make others aware. It is OK for you to tell others
when you are available for them and when you are not. Post
a schedule or tell them in person then stuck to your plan.
Use electronic devices wisely. Be sure they actually
shave time from your day and help you stay in control. If
you spend minutes fixing errors, figuring things out or playing
the included games, it is not a good time investment.
Evaluate often. Whenever you need to, ask yourself
honestly, "Is this the best use of my time right now?"
If it isn't, take proper action.
Communicate well. We waste so much time due to poor
communication skills. A thing well said cuts through long
explanations and demonstrates that you value the time of others
as well.
Do small stuff. When you get stuck, do the little
things that add up over time to get your juices going again.
The small satisfactions can lead us to going for the larger
ones that loom ahead without stress.
Meet weekly. Schedule a time each week to have a meeting
with your self. Use the time to set goals, order priorities
and lay out your schedule to support what is important to
you.
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