Time is the great equalizer. There are only 24 hours in a day and no one can buy more time, it can only be spent. Some want to control time, but no matter how much you might beg or plead, it is the same for everyone, rich or poor, as I said the great equalizer.
Time is also a resource that can be managed and maximized. Here are a few suggestions on how to make the most of the time we have available and to utilize it efficiently and effectively.
Finish One Thing First:
Even though multitasking is the latest buzz, when juggling tasks, sometimes we forget about keeping our eyes on all the balls in the air. And when they do fall, the time spent doing damage control wasn’t worth the trade. Juggle what you can, but always remember to finish what needs to be finished first. By doing so, you will find a little oasis of sanity and calm, and are better able to move on to the next task.
Flexibility:
Being organized and completing tasks actually helps you to be flexible. As you have more flexibility in your schedule, you find that you have more opportunities to do what has to be done. And this flexibility lets you build beneficial work relationships since you can now talk to and help your co-workers. Once they see that you are willing to be a part of a team, it’s easier to ask for and get assistance when we need it.
Get Organized:
Busy people write things down. It gives them a map to follow, a direction in which to go. This is a HUGE timesaver since it helps you to work smarter, not harder, under pressure. Write stuff down where it’s supposed to be written. All those sticky notes with names and numbers should go into your phone book. Date and time notes should be written in your calendar. Deal with each piece of paper once; read it, then file it, pass it on or can it. This way your focus is on results, not being busy looking for stuff.
Daily Goals:
Spend a few minutes before leaving for the day writing out the next day’s to do list so you can hit the ground running. This will help you to look at the time available and how best to plan your day. It’s easier to get things done, when you know what you have to do. You’ll remember to carry out the important tasks first and to not major on the minor. Gather the information\materials you need for the project before you start. This will help your production and stay focused on what you’re doing.
Take Time For Time:
The one advantage that smokers in an office have is that they have to get away from their desk to enjoy a cigarette. This gives them the opportunity to relax and develop an idea. It’s an opportunity to talk to others and brainstorm. Now if you don’t smoke, walk outside & get a breath of fresh air. Let nature help recharge your battery. Also, if a colleague walks up to talk while you’re working on a deadline, schedule a time to talk to them later on in the day. By getting away from your desk, the surge of ideas increases as the blood flows.
Do Things Right The First Time:
Carpenters have a standard rule, measure twice, cut once. The idea is to double check what you’re doing before executing. This will cut down on costly mistakes and make you more productive in the long run. Nothing wastes more time than having to do a job over and over again. Look for ways to cut out repetitive tasks. Learn from your mistakes. By doing things right the first time, you’ll have more time.
The bottom line is this, have a plan in place to help you manage time. This will enable you to be productive instead of looking busy.
Time is also a resource that can be managed and maximized. Here are a few suggestions on how to make the most of the time we have available and to utilize it efficiently and effectively.
Finish One Thing First:
Even though multitasking is the latest buzz, when juggling tasks, sometimes we forget about keeping our eyes on all the balls in the air. And when they do fall, the time spent doing damage control wasn’t worth the trade. Juggle what you can, but always remember to finish what needs to be finished first. By doing so, you will find a little oasis of sanity and calm, and are better able to move on to the next task.
Flexibility:
Being organized and completing tasks actually helps you to be flexible. As you have more flexibility in your schedule, you find that you have more opportunities to do what has to be done. And this flexibility lets you build beneficial work relationships since you can now talk to and help your co-workers. Once they see that you are willing to be a part of a team, it’s easier to ask for and get assistance when we need it.
Get Organized:
Busy people write things down. It gives them a map to follow, a direction in which to go. This is a HUGE timesaver since it helps you to work smarter, not harder, under pressure. Write stuff down where it’s supposed to be written. All those sticky notes with names and numbers should go into your phone book. Date and time notes should be written in your calendar. Deal with each piece of paper once; read it, then file it, pass it on or can it. This way your focus is on results, not being busy looking for stuff.
Daily Goals:
Spend a few minutes before leaving for the day writing out the next day’s to do list so you can hit the ground running. This will help you to look at the time available and how best to plan your day. It’s easier to get things done, when you know what you have to do. You’ll remember to carry out the important tasks first and to not major on the minor. Gather the information\materials you need for the project before you start. This will help your production and stay focused on what you’re doing.
Take Time For Time:
The one advantage that smokers in an office have is that they have to get away from their desk to enjoy a cigarette. This gives them the opportunity to relax and develop an idea. It’s an opportunity to talk to others and brainstorm. Now if you don’t smoke, walk outside & get a breath of fresh air. Let nature help recharge your battery. Also, if a colleague walks up to talk while you’re working on a deadline, schedule a time to talk to them later on in the day. By getting away from your desk, the surge of ideas increases as the blood flows.
Do Things Right The First Time:
Carpenters have a standard rule, measure twice, cut once. The idea is to double check what you’re doing before executing. This will cut down on costly mistakes and make you more productive in the long run. Nothing wastes more time than having to do a job over and over again. Look for ways to cut out repetitive tasks. Learn from your mistakes. By doing things right the first time, you’ll have more time.
The bottom line is this, have a plan in place to help you manage time. This will enable you to be productive instead of looking busy.
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