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Why Time Management Solutions Should Not Be Cookie-Cutter
Time management can be frustrating, especially for solo-preneurs and corporate executives. Many time management programs offer a single solution with the idea that, "One size fits all." But when we look at the way individuals face time challenges, we can identify at least three patterns: organization, overwhelm, inspiration and motivation.
Organization: Do you make a "To-Do" list every day, but find you never seem to cross off all the items? Do you come to the end of the day wondering where the time went?
Your challenge is to discover how you really use your time. Keep a time log. Even better, set a timer to go off every 15 minutes or every 30 minutes, depending on your projects. As the timer goes off, write down what you have just been doing.
You will probably be surprised to discover patterns. One executive discovered he spent several hours chatting with coworkers who saw the open door and just popped in for a friendly conversation.
A business owner showed his blog to his coach. She pointed out a pattern he had never noticed. He tended to finish smaller tasks and leave the larger ones "for later."
Inspiration: Do you work hard all day but realize you are not making progress to your goal? Business owners often find they work many hours but see little business growth.
Typically this pattern occurs when you are not clear on what you want to accomplish. Maybe you've got a home business and you are still learning what's involved. You work on accounting records and feel frustrated because you are not making enough money. So you work on a logo and maybe start to write an information product.
Often your time management challenges evaporate when you understand the concept of "inspired action:" action that moves you toward your goal, without useless detours. We're taught that "busy is best." But sometimes taking time off or viewing the Big Picture will make more sense.
Motivation: Do you face a big project where you have trouble getting started? Often writers resist starting a book or article. Business owners decide they don't need to create yet another teleseminar.
A motivation crisis happens when you're asking yourself, "Why bother?" with one part of your brain. Meanwhile, the rest of your mind is busy creating thoughts like, "You really need to do this."
Your challenge is to sort out what's the real message. Do you really need to tackle this project...or are you pushing yourself into a project that will be a huge waste of time?
About the Author Time Management challenges need not be one-size-fits-all. I invite you to download your 21-Day Time Management Makeover: End Overwhelm One and For All. Time Management Report From Cathy Goodwin, PhD. at Copy-Cat-Copywriting
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