6 Tips On Prioritizing
Time Management & Productivity
ORGANIZE, FOCUS, GET-ER DONE!!!!!
I have a contractor friend that is always “behind the eight ball” when it comes paying his taxes, his bills, or getting out estimates. This doesn’t usually bother me unless he’s unable to make a scheduled sport event, dinner or function because, “he’s swamped.” Then I get annoyed!
The reality is he just isn’t organized and wastes alot of time “spinning his tires” in stead of being productive.
These 6 Tips On Prioritizing are for him:
To Do Lists:
Personally, I have found that using a to-do list is one of the best things I can do for my productivity.
Make a list to keep track of your tasks, instead of relying on your memory. A list will give you a clear idea of what you need to accomplish. Identify high-priority tasks. Decide which tasks or activities will generate the most benefit for you or your business.
Each day there are so many different things fighting for my time, but with a to-do list I always know what is most critical and what I need to get done first.
If I get everything on my list done then I can move on to other things. I like to write out the list at the end of the night (making a list for the next day) or first thing in the morning before I start any work.
Prioritize:
Which tasks could you handle another day? If you would face no consequences by moving a task forward, move it ahead another day or another week.
Know the difference between important and urgent. Important means a task needs to be done while urgent means it must be done immediately. Knowing the difference between the two will make prioritizing easier.
Focus on your list:
Focus on one project at a time. Most of us have ideas for more things than we can ever accomplish.
Resist the urge to start something new until you have achieved some success with your current project(s). Be realistic with how much available time you have, and make sure you are giving yourself a chance for success at anything you attempt.
Show me the money:
Recognize what makes you money and focus on that work first.
Be Realistic:
Realize that you can’t do everything. This will help you to realistically prioritize your tasks.
Organize your Office:
Use a calender and scheduling book to keep track of appointments and jobs, create a well-labeled filing system and use it! Have a message system set up on your phone, and set aside time to return phone calls. Lastly schedule time to pay bills and do paperwork!
Practicing these 6 tips on prioritizing will help you be more organized, efficient and productive.
~ concord carpenter
