A Pocket Guide to Time Management
Posted in Productivity
Here is an outline of fundamental time-management principles. There’s nothing ground-breaking about these principles, just proven, common-sense steps to making the most efficient use of your time.
I’ve formated this outline as a 3×5 inch card and attached PDF and MS Word versions. Print the card and carry it in your wallet, the back pocket of a Moleskine notebook or taped to the inside cover of your planning binder.
Then, when you need to remind yourself of the basics, or help someone with their time-management processes, pull out the card and review.
Set objectives that are:
- Specific
- Measurable
- Achievable
- Realistic
- Time-based
Prioritize:
- Decide which of your tasks you should:
- Do
- Delegate
- Delay
- Delete
- Eliminate the urgent:
- Address the tasks that have short-term consequences
- Set deadlines for tasks that have long-term implications
Organize
- Use a planner to track your tasks and appointments.
Learn to Say No
- Realize that you can’t do everything.
- Eliminate things you do not have time to complete.
- Align your commitments with your goals and objectives.
Use Your Waiting Time
- Accomplish small tasks while you wait.
- Look at time you spend waiting as useful time rather than wasted time.
Do One Thing at a Time
- Focus on the task at hand.
- Eliminate interruptions.
Work Your Prime Time
- Know what time of day you are at your best - morning, afternoon or evening.
- Concentrate on completing your most challenging tasks at your own prime time.
Reward Success
- Celebrate the achievement of your objectives.
- Reward yourself when you complete a task or finish a project.
Click to download: A Pocket Guide to Time Management (PDF 71 KB)
Click to download: A Pocket Guide To Time Management (MS Doc 96 KB)
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Comments
Thanks for the concise post and the handy portable version of the tool. I’m guilty of paying more attention to my financial budget than my time supply; that needs to change and your download will be a real help to me. Very cool.
n.kateus http://www.EyeballsNTraffic.com
I think this can be useful for anyone who wants to get things done. It’s always beneficial to have a copy of your blueprints with you. Keeping a pocket guide for you time management system can help in keeping you on track.
Well done!