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Time Management TechniquesIf you’ve ever been to New
York, specifically walked the streets of Manhattan, you will
immediately notice everyone is rushing around, seemingly
clueless as to where they are going. Typical of major cities,
visitors always ask, “Where is everyone running to?” Actually,
the question should be, “Why is everyone in such a hurry?” It’s
all about time. She’s late for lunch; he’s going to miss the
train or bus home; we’ll be late for dinner. No one ever stops
to think about the amount of time wasted worrying about it. The
realization that proper planning is the key to saving time has
somehow eluded us. It’s important, then, to discuss time
management techniques to effectively yield positive
results.
Preparation
Make a daily list of things to do, appointments to keep, and so
on.
Don’t Be Late
If you have an appointment, leave an hour earlier. Together
with traffic delays and phone call interruptions, you’ll have
plenty of time to arrive at your destination.
First on the List
When making a list of things to do, begin with the most
important item first. Then prioritize the rest as you complete
your list.
Throw Perfectionism out the Window
If you have an important engagement, wedding or other function
to attend; don’t waste so much time over the minor things which
will cause you to be late. You know the old saying, “Don’t
sweat the small stuff.” It happens to be true. Conversely, if
you expect company for the holidays, don’t freak out because
your kitchen floor isn’t spotless. No one cares but you.
Friends are coming to your home to see you, not the floor.
Don’t Procrastinate
If you’ve started a home project, but you have to pick up a
friend at a certain time; drop what you are doing and go. If
that doesn’t work, have your friend call you every 15 minutes
until you’ve left the house.
Don’t Be Afraid to Say, “Sorry, I Can’t.”
Perhaps you are working on a project at work, and you must
leave on time to pick up your children this particular day.
Your boss asks if you can stay an extra hour. You feel torn
about saying no for fear you may upset your boss. Stop! You are
a hard worker; you’re very efficient, and you’ve always been
there when your boss needed you. It’s time to think of you.
Simply say, “Sorry, I can’t today.”
Time is important to everyone.
It is a basic and important component in how we conduct our
business; our lives, and even our free time.
It should not be wasted nor squandered; but used for preparing
our daily routines; our work habits; and our family
responsibilities..
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