Proven Tips for Managing Your Time

Use the 80/20 rule

All work is not created equal.  Some things matter more than others.

20%
Is this work important to you and your team?

80%
Is this just work you have to do?

Examples of 80% Work

• Filling out reports
• Compiling spreadsheets
• Chatting with colleagues

 Never invest more than half of your time on things in the 80% pile!

Discover your Einstein window

Mental peak – work feels fun – things get done – last 2 to 4 hours.

Protecting Your Window

• Learn to say no
• Step away from your desk
• Silence your phone

Communicate your availability

Be proactive about your availability.

Colored Cards Example

• Agree on what the colors mean
• Place a card outside your work area
• Change card as needed

You have to use this type of system with integrity.

Other Options

• Block time shared calendars
• Send a digital note to your team
• Stop by and let someone know

Strategically manage your work

Think about work you just have to do.

Ways to Automate

• Auto-populate reports
• Build macros in spreadsheets
• Create digital contracts (instead of paper)

Ways to Outsource

• Delegate work to someone who can help
• Provide work to someone who can help
• Draft, hand off, and focus on important tasks

Ways to Delegate

• Present a development opportunity to someone
• Help others build new skills

Other classic time management tips

Classic Tips

• Arrive early to work (try it one day per week)
• Do a time audit every year
• Start with a day planner
• Work at home when you can (once a week or a few times per month)
• Switch tasks – when stuck working on a problem
• Delay something you want until you finish a prescribed goal
• Take breaks
• Use time limits on tasks
• Avoid multitasking