Manage yourself for better productivity
February 22nd, 2008 Ogbuotobo Chuks || chuks@stockmarketnigeria.com
By Ogbuotobo Chuks
As we gradually approach the third month in 2008, I would like us to take a brief look at how well we have managed our time so far. This is an issue that most people battle with, day in day out . Many of us claim our days are never wasted. “I know where I’m going and what I’m going to do”. If you truly feel that way, then you are in the minority. Most people become frustrated with a day that is unproductive. We would all like to get more done in a day.
The idea of time management has been in existence for more than 100 years. Unfortunately, time cannot be managed, time is uncontrollable. The best we can do is to manage ourselves and use our time.
For those that do not know some of those things that steal their time, we shall examine some time management issues more in detail. We shall be looking at some things that steal our time and possible remedies to them.
The telephone. Have you ever had one of those days when you thought your true calling was in telemarketing? The telephone- our greatest communication tool can be our biggest enemy to effectiveness if you do not know how to control its hold over you.
Lack of priorities/ objectives. This is probably the biggest/ most important time waster. It affects all we do both professionally and personally. Those who accomplish the most in the day know exactly what they want to accomplish. Unfortunately, too many of us think that goals and objectives are yearly things and not daily considerations. This results in too much time spent on the minor things and not on the things which are important to our lives.
Attempting too much. Many people feel that they have to accomplish everything yesterday and they do not give themselves enough time to do things properly. This leads only to half finished projects and no feeling of achievement.
The inability to say “no“. The general rule is, if people can dump their work on your shoulders, they will do it. Some of the most stressed people around lack the skill to ‘just say no’ for fear of upsetting people.
There are many ways through which we can manage ourselves. Below are some strategies you van use to manage your time.
Analyze the use of your time. Are you spending enough time on the projects which although may not be urgent now are things you need to do to develop yourself or your career? If you are constantly asking yourself ” what is the most important use of my time, right now?” it will help you focus on important tasks and stop reacting to tasks which seem urgent, but carry no importance towards your goals.
Have a plan. How can you achieve your goals without a plan? Most people know what they want but have no plan to achieve it except by sheer hard work. Your yearly plan should be viewed daily and reset as your achievements are met. Successful people make lists constantly. This enables them to stay on top of priorities and remain flexible to changing priorities. This should be done for both personal and business goal.
Make a commitment to managing yourself better in the remaining months of this year.
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