by: Michelle Murphy
Managing your time effectively is as critical as managing your money effectively. At one time or another, we have all wished for just “one more hour” in our day. But working longer hours will not make you more productive. Managing your schedule effectively will give you more time and produce the results that you desire. So how do you do that?
We have all felt overwhelmed or overworked at one time or another. Generally, when you are more overwhelmed you tend to be less productive. The more you spin your wheels, the less you are able to accomplish.
The six important steps to managing your time wisely are:
1. Write it down! Make a “to do” list of all of your tasks, projects and important action items. Be sure to include any personal items that are vital at the moment. This will help you to create a healthy balance between your personal and professional life. The more organized you become in your career, the more balance you will feel in your personal life also.
2. Prioritize your list! Take some time to go through the list that you have just created and decide which items are most important at the moment. Set deadlines for any of the items that do not have deadlines yet. Taking care of the most critical items first, will give you a sense of accomplishment.
3. Setting Goals! Be sure that your “to do” list matches your goals. What do you hope to accomplish?
4. Flexibility! It is important to be flexible. You can have a “to do” list and try to plan your week, but allow for unexpected interruptions. They do happen and you have to allow for them.
5. Outsourcing! Do you have any items on your list that do not need your personal attention? Are there items, such as administrative duties that you can delegate? Outsourcing is a wonderful way to effectively manage your time.
6. Small Rewards! When you have accomplished a task, whether large or small, promise yourself a reward for a job well done.