Henry David Thoreau said, “It is not enough to be busy. The question is what are you busy about.” Time management is about taking the finite amount of time we are given, and using it in the most productive way possible. We all have the same 24 hours in a day to accomplish our goals. Our life is a created out of what we choose to focus that time on, and what we give priority to.
Those who master the concept of time management find they can accomplish more than they ever thought possible. They eliminate the stress and anxiety that comes with feeling rushed and disorganized, and they enjoy greater peace and productivity. They create a rich and memorable life filled with success rather than longing, and fulfillment rather than regret
Here’s how you can do the same:
Have a plan:You should have goals and objectives to keep you focused on the big things you want to accomplish in your life. Your goals should be broken down into smaller objectives, like yearly, monthly, or weekly. Finally, you should have a daily to do list that you prepare the night before. This allows you to spend the most productive part of your day taking meaningful action.
Prioritize your tasks:You should always do the most important tasks first. For instance, in business, you should focus on the tasks that will most quickly net you a profit, like marketing to new prospects or following up with past clients. Save time sucking activities like checking your email for later in the day.
Focus on one thing at a time:While multi tasking may be all the rage, studies have consistently shown that you get less done, and produce inferior work, when multi tasking. By creating laser like focus, you’ll accomplish much more and create a high quality of work.
Stay Organized:Did you know the average American will spend one year looking through desk clutter to find something? One of the best ways to save time is to stay organized, both personally and professionally. Create a place for everything, and a system for your paperwork. The time you save will be tremendous.
Outsource, Delegate and Systemize:Focus on your strengths. Outsource and delegate the rest. Take advantage of any systems in place that could automate a task, or make it easier. Ask any successful person and they will say these steps were what took their business to a whole new level. They can triple, even quadruple your productivity, literally overnight.
Say No:You can’t do it all. You must focus on the things that really matter and let the rest fall by the way side. Know what your core values are, and spend your time on activities that honor those and enhance your well being.
Factor in some downtime:You need time to rest, to recharge, to just be... Make sure you take care of yourself and spend time relaxing - get a manicure, take a walk, read a book. You’ll be much more productive if you allow yourself some breaks.
Time management is all about creating positive habits that honor who you are, and what you want your life to be about. By being aware of how you use your time and how it relates to the goals you want to achieve, you’ll not only master time management, you’ll create a life filled with peace, prosperity and success.
To Your Success,
Nathan Amaral
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