Time Management Part 2

Time Management Part 2

There are a couple of systems and strategies or “tricks and tools” I use for time management that may be useful to you.

One thing is that I prefer to have time pieces (watches and clocks) that have an hour and minute and second hand on them. There is something about those time places that gives the sense of time passing to me…deep into my bones that a digital/numerical clock does not.

Next, and more importantly for me, is the use of day planners that allow me to have monthly views. I prefer to visually see at least one month laid out at a time, however often at least 3 months laid out in advance is extremely helpful. I have some large laminated calendars in my office that show the big stuff, or stuff I must remember such as travel departure date, return dates, and place, key meetings that may happen once a month or less (so that I remember them). That way, when I am planning for workshops, coaching calls or additional travel, I can see what space is available for further planning. I can also get a sense of what type of rhythm is forming and working for me in my schedule. I tend to plan my schedule in chunks of a month at a time for the big stuff, review a week out on Sunday evenings, and the next day coming the evening before.

I also use a calendar I can access on line (via the internet) that is viewable by day, week or monthly formats. It is easy to schedule recurring coaching calls and other recurring activities with the ability make adjustments quickly. It does not give me as large of a view as I like to have sometimes, that is why I still duplicate some of the events in my internet calendar on my wall calendar.

If time seems elusive to you, experiment with these tools: a clock and watch with hour, minute and second hands, a large wall calendar with at least a 2 month view, and a paper or electronic day planner that is easy for you to see at least a one week and one month view. Be sure to first place key activities; such as work, class, health & wellness appointments, and any key thing; such as grocery shopping, that you want to make sure get done on the calendar. Then, with whatever time may be left, add the other stuff. It is essential that you schedule time for fun and social interaction for your own peace of mind, sense of well being, and to regroup for the rest of life.