It is how we approach our tasks on a daily basis that can determine our level of success. This is why it is important to regularly check if we use our time most effectively. In order to become a master at managing your own time you can implement the following…
6 time management techniques:
- 1. Planning your day
- Use up to 30 minutes in the morning to plan your day. Don't start your working day until you have completed your schedule and prioritized your tasks. This way you will increase your productivity and actually save time.
- 2. Specifying your goals
- Take a few minutes before making a call or approaching a task to specify what result you would like to attain. This will help you determine what success looks like before you start. Additionally, take a few minutes after the call or activity to decide whether your desired result was achieved. If not, then ask yourself: What was missing and how can I achieve the desired results next time?
- 3. Getting work done
- Put a "Do not disturb" sign up when you absolutely have to get work done. If you don’t have your own office and you are allocated a new task, then make sure you manage expectations and let your colleagues know that you are working on another high priority task. Also, tell your colleague or manager when you will be able to start and deliver on the new task.
- 4. Responding later
- Keep in mind that you don't always have to answer the phone straightaway, just because it keeps ringing, and you don't have to reply to emails just because they're popping up. If you are concentrating on another task you can choose to respond later when you have some spare time. You can also schedule a time to answer emails and return phone calls.
- 5. Avoiding non-work-related distractions
- Block out other distractions such as Facebook and other forms of social media unless you use these tools to generate business. You can always check Facebook during your lunch break or on your way to or from work.
- 6. Owning your own time
- Remember that it's impossible to get everything done. However, you can prioritise tasks and manage your day in order to really own your own time.