Time management is really self-management. Just about every leader I coach is pressed for time. Many of my lawyer coaching clients struggle with the billable hour requirement.
Take about two minutes to fill out my How well do you manage your time and your life? Time/Self- Management Quiz in the Self Assessment Quiz Resources section on my Working Resources Blog. You might also get some provocative ideas on managing your time and your life by reading The Four Hour Work Week by Tim Ferris.
How are you spending your time?
This question is painfully simple, yet it plays a major role in the execution of your vision and priorities. Time is your most precious asset. Sadly, many leaders cannot accurately answer this question. It’s vital for them to track their time so they can gain a realistic, honest assessment of how their time is allocated. You may be surprised to find a disconnect between your top priorities and how you actually spend your time.
People take their cues from the leader when it comes to time management. Actions, business priorities and your team’s activities must match.
Time allocation may vary, depending on time of year, personnel changes and external factors. Nonetheless, time management must become a conscious decision that fits your vision and priorities. A periodic review of how you invest your time is vital, similar to your approach to reviewing your financial investments.
Ask yourself:
• How am I spending my time? Does this match my key priorities?
• How are my subordinates spending their time? Does this match my business’ key priorities?
Comments