Time management is one of the biggest challenges you may face. Staying focused until the 'job is done' is easier said then done. I'm considered an expert in time management, and every time I consult with someone, I have to smile. You see, I have to be real honest about this. I used to be the worst at staying focused and managing my time.
I used to be busy all day, only to look back and realize I didn't accomplish a single, productive thing. Time definitely managed me. No task, no matter how great or small, was accomplished by me. I was more then frustrated - I was unproductive and not getting what I wanted. Back then, I was without purpose, trying the 'latest thing' and spending a heck of a lot of time, energy and money - with little to share for it.
One of the first things I learned, when I committed to overcoming this non-supportive habit, was to block time each day to focus on my highest income producing activities. It's where you set aside, an hour, two or more, to work on something like marketing. And here's the extra lesson I learned about managing this time.
You have to guard it like your life (or livelihood) depends on it - because it does.
What do I mean? Let's say you set aside 2 hours to work on your newsletter.
My suggestion would be to:
- turn off email
- turn off your web browser
- turn off your cell phone
- close your office door and let your assistant know you're in 'do not disturb' mode
- set a timer (egg timers work great) for 15-30 minute bursts
- stay focused on your task despite your wandering mind
- and keep your phone, email, browser, etc OFF the whole time
Then allow yourself 15-30 minutes after the block, to check emails, voicemails, etc.
If done long enough, you'll find you need to check email, voicemail etc, much less. Over time, this time management technique seems effortless because you realize you don't need to check these things so often. I frequently go 24 hours or more without checking because I'm so focused.
Start small and build this muscle. If this is new, start with a 15 or 30 minute block of time in the morning, then one in the afternoon - if you can manage. Build up from there. As you get better at managing your time, you'll naturally build these blocks into everyday. I set appointments with myself in my calendar. What techniques can you use?
Remember, time management does not have to be difficult. By setting blocks of time aside each day to work on your highest income producing activities, managing your time becomes effortless.
