Time is Money, Manage it Well

The Ohio State University Extension provides time management tips as a part of their small business series.  In a great tutorial outlining internal and external time wasters and how to effectively manage one’s time, Karen M. Williams provides the following Top Tips:

1. Consolidate similar tasks-group similar jobs and do them concurrently. This eliminates a lot of sporadic behavior.
2. Tackle tough jobs first-quit doing petty tasks and tackle the big jobs first. Remember the 80/20 rule. You will find you will be able to finish big jobs without stress.
3. Delegate and develop others-delegation is not a dumping ceremony. Break the “Do-It-Yourself” habit and let others learn to share responsibility in operating the business. You will find you have more time for major tasks.
4. Learn to use idle time-when there seems to be down time, read a book, write a memo or plan what needs to be done in the business. Get control of the paper flow-handle each piece of paper only once-throw out junk, and don’t pick up a piece of paper unless you plan to use it.
5. Avoid the cluttered desk syndrome-a clear desk helps you to think clearly, locate papers easier and keep your mind on the task at hand.
6. Get started immediately on important tasks-no matter how much you hate doing a task, do it. Remember, you must change old habits. Try rewarding yourself at the end of the day. This will motivate self-discipline.
7. Reduce meeting time-ask yourself if a meeting is necessary. Will a phone call do just as well? If a meeting is a must, try a standup one; this will guarantee that the important issue is addressed. Take time to plan-without it, how will you know what needs to be accomplished for a day, week, month or several years?
8. Learn to say no. This requires practice, but the more you say it, the less guilty you will feel and the more jobs you are committed to.

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