This document provides tips for improving time management and productivity. It emphasizes the importance of setting SMART goals that are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time-bound. It recommends breaking goals down into specific tasks with deadlines, and reviewing progress regularly to make adjustments. Common time wasters include interruptions, unplanned meetings, lack of prioritization and procrastination. Strategies suggested to improve productivity include writing tasks down, prioritizing lists, planning your week in advance, learning to say no, getting enough sleep, and finding tools like planners and software to stay organized.
2. To become a ringmaster, you must realize that theres a time and a place for everything. Successful time managers realize its all about DISCIPLINE
3. T - Things To Do I - Identify priorities M - Make It Happen E - Evaluate
4. What is the goal? Why am I doing this? How & Why will I succeed? What happens if I chose not to have a goal? Goals A few questions
5. The difference between a Goal and a Dream is the written word A goal is the end result towards which time, energy and resources are directed. It should define the outcome and the purpose
6. SMART Goals S SPECIFIC M MEASURABLE A ATTAINABLE / ACHIEVABLE R RELEVANT T TIME BOUND
7. Plan your work & Work your Plan Break each goal down to specific tasks with clear outcomes Plan the execution of those tasks with timetables Gather the necessary resources Execute the plan
8. Review Can be done daily/ monthly/quarterly Self review (Use of metrics, To Do Lists) Revaluate Incorporate necessary changes & document Reschedule Agree upon date of next review and final dates for completion The 3 Important Rs
9. External Time Wasters Interruption Office Socializing Too many unplanned meetings Unscheduled Visitors Unclear Goals Poor work environment Bureaucratic ways
10. Internal Time Wasters Procrastination Lack of Planning Lack of prioritizing Slow reading Indecision Not being able to say NO Physical & Mental exhaustion Low self motivation Messy Work place
15. Checklist of some Time Savers & Have Fun! Write things down Prioritize your to do list Plan your week ( Broad List) Carry a notebook/ Organizer Learn to say No Identify Bad Habits Continuously improve yourself Keep a Goal Journal Get enough Sleep Dont be a perfectionist Utilize Productive Procrastination Ask Questions Apply the 80/20 rule Use your energy cycles Clean your desk , cupboards Learn to relax Learn to Speed read Find a Role Model
16. Some Tools Day Planners Handheld PDAs PDA / Cell Phones Handheld tape recorders PIM Software Tablet PCs
17. Using the TOOLS Dont be afraid of the learning curve Be consistent - daily is daily, occasionally is not worth much. One source works multiple sources mean you never have the information you need when you need it. Backup everything. An appointment lost, a contact lost, may mean work is a do-over, and who needs that.
18. Some tips to increase Productivity & Concentration Candle watching Separate yourself from your environment Set Goals Avoid Stimulants Eliminate distractions ahead of time Develop an interest in your task Practice the 5 More rule
Time management is all about self management. There are many ways of managing self. Managing time is dependent on you as these are based on the roles we play in life and as an individual.