What Time Management Is
… an attempt to control the timing of events in one's life - when control is possible.
Sorry, no one has complete control over their lives. We all rely on a large number of other people, events, and circumstances to try to accomplish the things we need to do. If you think you are totally self-sufficient, think again: the groceries you buy are on the shelves because someone trucked them in, working on a schedule. We have electricity because someone bothers to work at the power plant; even our television viewing is reliant on the provider's ability to broadcast the shows, and it's all on a schedule. All that being said, it becomes even more important to try to control the few things we can!
… prioritizing activities so that the most important things get done.
Most people who write a to-do list will tell you that they don't always get the whole list done each day. However, a good time manager will make sure the most important things get done! Deciding what is most important to you includes determining any consequences; what would happen if it doesn't get done today? Who else is relying on you to get it done? How does completing this activity affect your ability to move forward with other tasks? If there is a deadline, what is the consequence of missing it? Can something else wait?
… using tools to systematically record reminders.
Whether scribbling a to-do list on recycled paper or pinning notes to the fridge, or using a Blackberry synchronized with several online accounts, it's important to have time tools. It's a good tool if (1) it doesn't take forever to record the information you need, and (2) you will remember to look at it. Sometimes, just the act of writing something down will help commit you to the task.
Review: Control what you can, prioritize, and use tools.
What Time Management Isn't
… relying on your memory.
One seemingly small event missed can set a chain reaction that can shut down your day or even kill a project at work. Relying on memory leaves you open to missing that one small event. Bosses get nervous when things are not written down, too! And your clients, coworkers, and family might need to know what you are up to, so write it down, and you won't have to take the time to explain it all.
… relying on others to remind you when things need to be done.
If you think your spouse/parent/child/coworker with the knack for keeping you on track will always be there at work with you, well, they won't, unless it's take-your-child-to-work every day. Start relying on yourself and your own tools, and you've made a step closer to being a true professional in any career you choose.
… scheduling activities for every quarter hour, half hour, or even every hour.
This is called micromanaging, and it is not only time-costly to organize this way, it can bring about extra stress since unexpected events are likely to mess it all up! Some things will need scheduling, but others just need to be done sometime during your day. Some detail just doesn't need to be spelled out, and sometimes you'll need a buffer for those unexpected things.
… cutting out all playtime.
The old saying, "Work first, play later" comes to mind. Yes, we need playtime to de-stress, but if the work isn't done, there's that nagging feeling of guilt or worry while we play, and it can really spoil playtime! So, get the important things done first, and then you can play without guilt. Win-win.
Review: Write it down, do it yourself, don't micromanage, and take time to play - when the work is done.
© 2011 Prof. Tamara Fudge