6 Tips On Prioritizing

By Robert Robillard on Contractor Advice

 

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


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About the author

Robert Robillard

Carpenter / Remodeler / Editor

Rob Robillard is “The Concord Carpenter” Rob is a builder, general contractor, carpenter, woodworker, and editor of Concord Carpenter and ToolBoxBuzz As a General Contractor and carpenter, Rob owns and operates Concord Carpenter LLC. A full-service remodeling and construction company. Rob is a recognized leader in home building best practices and a source for how-to information for building professionals. On this website, Rob covers all aspects of home construction, building science, home improvement, woodworking, remodeling, and some of the best product and tool reviews. Rob is in charge of our Tool and Product Review series - Concord Carpenter Videos where we post all of our tool reviews and video tutorials. Rob approaches remodeling and building construction with a pragmatic and problem-solving approach. He enjoys using his knowledge and experience to help and educate building professionals as well as DIYers on best practices in the construction and remodeling industry. He's a strong advocate for "raising the bar" in the construction trades and promoting the trades to youth. #BeAMentor #Green2Great Craftsmanship, quality, and pride guide his journey on this channel The Concord Carpenter's motto: "Well done is better than well said!" : Read more about Rob

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