Have you ever thought to yourself that there aren’t enough hours in the day, or felt overwhelmed at the tasks facing you? Have you ever used avoidance tactics to put off doing things because you don’t know quite where to start? Do you sometimes prioritise something that isn’t really a priority at all? I certainly have. 

If you need help identifying your goals, making decisions, and prioritising tasks a life coach can help keep you on track and hold you accountable. If you struggle with time management, you might also find this article helpful. 

1. Clarify your goals and strategy

Be very clear about your aims and ambitions, both short and long term. Write them down. Once you know what you really want to achieve (and why) it’s easier to make decisions about what needs doing, and to plan accordingly. 

2. Focus on your top priorities 

You’ll be more productive and profitable if you identify and focus on the areas that are most important to you or your business. Work on the fundamentals first. The Latin word ‘fundamentum’ means foundation – so take action, build strong foundations and the rest should follow.

3. Schedule time 

Literally write an appointment in your work planner (assuming you have one? If not, get one!) to set aside a realistic block of time for your priority actions. This reduces anxiety over not having enough time and keeps you focused.

4. Say no! 

Consider entrepreneur, Jim Rohn’s suggestion. “Learn how to say no. Don’t let your mouth overload your back.” Always check your schedule before committing to anything new. Don’t allow others to divert you from your objectives.

5. Create support systems 

This includes systems for filing, management information and communication and having a dedicated workspace so that you don’t get distracted by other people or the washing up or the laundry. You can find time to do this later. 

6. Take a reality check 

Will your current activity have a positive outcome, or are you doing it to avoid something else? Ask yourself – will doing this take me towards my goal? As Peter F Drucker observed “There is nothing so useless as doing efficiently that which should not be done at all.”

7. Delegate!      

It’s tempting to do something yourself when you think you can do it faster and better. But consider the long term – delegation now will save time in the future, and if done appropriately can motivate others, boost their confidence and help them develop their skills.

8. Repeat your success 

Remember the last time you went away on holiday, and how you got so much done in those few days before you left? What strategies and techniques did you employ that made you so effective and focused? Can you repeat them? Alternatively, imagine you are going away tomorrow and work through today accordingly.

9. Balance your life 

Formally schedule personal activities too, so you make time for family, friends, your health and fun because having a balanced life reduces stress and increases energy levels. Time management is really about life management!

10. End the day 

At the end of the working day, tidy your desk, make notes about what needs doing tomorrow and prioritise those tasks. You’ll worry less that evening and be prepared and focused the next morning.