2 minutes
Every morning, people get up and choose how they want to begin the day. For some, this means exercising a little before heading to the office; for others, spending time with their children, reading the newspaper, or catching up on email.
In reality, everyone is doing some things instead of others, personally and professionally. But ultimately, being effective is not about finding a balance between two spheres, but knowing how to spend your time overall. It is time for people to embrace the idea of optimizing their day to balance work and life. The truth lies not in weighing priorities, but in planning ahead to make room for what you want to do.
Entrepreneurs should aim to be clear about their intentions to make the most of their time.
Do not follow a one-size-fits-all system.
Recognize that everyone optimizes time differently. My priorities and demands differ from yours and those of the next person. The key is to create an individualized plan that works for you, based on the minutes in your day or the number of hours of sleep you need.
Set aside time to talk in person.
Communication often breaks down through texts, emails, or even phone calls. Although people think these forms of communication make them more social and efficient, they are actually spending their time deciphering messages and clarifying points of view.
Constant interaction through digital technology prevents people from stepping back and connecting with physical reality. When everyone at the same table is texting one another, it is not funny; it is sad.
Keep a record.
If you feel your time is not being used efficiently, or you are unsure how many hours in your day you spend, it is time to keep a record. Create one that helps you identify which activities take the most time and what you can eliminate.
To optimize my time, I have kept a record for the last 15 years of my life. I can tell you roughly how many hours I have spent networking, exercising, playing guitar, or taking part in social activities. A record, which can be as simple as a well-maintained electronic calendar, also provides an honest view of how someone should spend their time, making it useful for assessing whether adjustments are needed.
Plan ahead.
I have most of my goals for 2019 on a 2018 calendar. Planning work events such as meetings or conferences in advance gives you other advantages throughout the year. Be transparent in communicating the master schedule so your colleagues can plan vacations and maximize time in other parts of their lives.
Integrating these tips into your life as you consider your vision for a new year can be a turning point in your personal and professional success. Remember, no one is perfect, and even if you follow this advice, distractions will always compete for your attention.
Source: entrepreneur.com