Time Management - Business Forum UK

Mike Seddon · 29-12-09, 06:28 PM

It's that time of year again (ie: the start of a new year) where certainly I always ask myself whther I have really maximised my time this year.

Do you do that?

My question is this. What Time Management Guru's do you follow? What books do you recommend? What Time Management systems do you adhere to?

I'm always willing to learn in the sphere of knowledge. So I'd really welcome anyone's thoughts.

Cheers

Mike

4little1s · 30-12-09, 06:04 AM

Hi,

I don't follow any Time Management Guru but I do periodically sit down and work out where am I actually spending my time. I then work out which of these areas has been the most productive set against particular objectives...for example atcually getting sales in or building better contacts up etc.

Its good for me as I quite easily get caught up in the day to day operational side of things, get very very very busy and then realise there are other more important usually strategic items that need attention. Using SMART has helped me over the years as well.

Still learning......

Paul Norman · 30-12-09, 08:56 AM

I run time management seminars. The starting pretext is this. Time ticks inexorably by, you have to choose more wisely what to do. And, more importantly, what not to do. The secret of achieving more is to leave undone the things that will make less difference, and focus on those that will make more.

Scootek · 30-12-09, 11:05 AM

I believe in time management. Read a few books a number of years ago. Nowadays I have a small notebook in my pocket all the time, and just tick things off. It is simple and seems to work for me. :001_smile:

RedEvo · 30-12-09, 12:04 PM

I must admit, despite having gadgets and web based tools I like a hand written todo list on my desk, those ticks are very satisfying.

Picking up on Paul's comments, as with other aspects of life, what you decide not to do will have as much impact as those you decide to do. I'm very good at over committing, saying yes when I shouldn't and wearing myself out. That's going to change....

d

sharp end training · 30-12-09, 12:24 PM

The "get things done" stuff is worth a read. David Allen I think. (Although I haven't got the actual book but a set of CD's)

He points out that gadgets and tools are just that ... gadgets and tools. It's the person who needs to manage time.

If the problem is just saying no or over commiting - no amount of toys will help that. And thats what needs addressing first.

Paul Norman · 31-12-09, 08:07 AM

That is the key point, actually. Unless you can find a way of working faster, which is not about time management, you are not really going to change the amount of 'things' you do. So you have to choose not to do them. Don't put them on a list, from whence they will stare at you, taunting. Forget them. Only put on the list what you are really going to do. Be ruthless. A lot of stuff should not make it to the list.

Big Pete · 31-12-09, 09:52 AM

I used to be good at time managing etc ,, but since i work from home now its all gone down hill..

To many distractions like Jeremy Kyle and stuff ..

But must improve in 2010 , hmmmmm maybe i should turn the TV off :001_rolleyes:

Funktion Events · 21-01-10, 10:09 AM

As long as the job is completed on time and to a high standard, then there is nothing to worry about. Concentrate on bringing the business in and keeping busy.

Lists are always a good tool to use.

gecko · 02-02-10, 10:46 AM

I agree with Paul Norman. You have to think about things that you should not do as much as about the the things that you should do.

Also agree on lists. Writing lists are more often than not just avoidance. Sometimes lists are important. I suggest that if you are likely to refer to the list less times than the number of items on the list then it is a waste of time. Actually I just made that one up and am quite proud of it!

Gecko