Ken Chapman & Assoc.
Phone: (205) 366-0265
Fax: (205) 366-0401
info@leaderscode.com

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Time Management

Making Good Time With Time
Copyright © All rights reserved.
By Gary Graham
Ken Chapman & Associates, Inc.

Have you ever heard someone say, “There’s just not enough time in the day”?  Chances are you have said it yourself.  It is just as likely that you have thought to yourself, “If you want something done right, give it to a busy person.”  The strategy is fine enough, unless, of course, you are the busy person being given the task.  Unfortunately most of us find ourselves feeling pressed for time and caught in an ever-increasing cycle of  demands on our time.  So, how do busy people - like you and me - manage to successfully manage our time? 

Let’s begin with the obvious:  Effective people focus on managing their time rather than allowing their time to manage them.  It is a truism that we all have the same number of hours in the day.  It is equally true [and obvious] that some people get more done with those hours than others.  The reason is painfully obvious:  Effective people manage their time. They do not allow their time to manage them. 

Effective time manage begins with good time planning.  One of the best things about time planning is that it can be as creative and individual as the planner.  The downside of time planning is that it can be hypnotic, resulting in analysis paralysis.    Analysis paralysis occurs  when a person becomes so fascinated with the “plan” that they fail to act.  Good time planning only works when the “plan” is used.

The best time management strategy will do us little good if it is not implemented.

Here are some additional suggestions for making your plan work:

1. Keep your eye on the target---consistently focus your time toward your goal.
2. Don’t say it, write it.  Outline, in writing how you will spend your time.
3. Gather appropriate information.  Know what you need to know.  [Measure twice and cut once---as the adage goes]
4. Consider alternatives.  A shortcut is valuable only if you don’t have to backtrack.
5. Remain flexible. You may discover better ways of managing your time.  
6. Follow through and follow up.  Demonstrate that you will do what you have  agreed to do.  If others believe you will respect and value their time, they are more likely to value and respect your time.

Use the above ideas and you will find that you are making “Good time with your time.”

 For more information about Ken Chapman and Associates’ Leadership Development Programs, contact Ken Chapman at 205.366.0265 or email Ken at kchapman@leaderscode.com.

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