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As you know, I speak about having more time. I like the fact that I can work 3 to 4 days a week and still manage to do all the things that I do.
But I do know this. Time is finite. No amount of money will get you more. We may leave things for later, but we really do not know if we are going to be around when later comes. I have been there, so I know. In many ways it can be a scary place to be.
It also means that I try to do too much. And that is not necessarily a good thing.
I often get asked how I manage to do all that I do. Sometimes, I think that, too. I run three separate brands and create 2 pieces of content a week, which you read and now listen to. I do charity work, and am now also training to run the London Marathon.
At the same time, I am trying to ensure clients are happy and that my team is doing its best not to destroy whatever it is I have built. Add to that the demands of family life, and I also wonder how it’s all done.
But honestly, I am doing exactly what you are doing. Like everyone, I am trying to cram as much as possible into the few years we have left.
So, either it means I am brilliant, or I have a system. Now knowing me, I would like to think I am brilliant, but as my wife keeps reminding me, I am a moron, which means I cannot be both. And as my wife is infinitely more sensible than I, I am going to say I think I have a good system.
Without further wasting of time…. here is a system which may help you.
1. Time is the most valuable possession
So, use it wisely — and that means owning your diary.
I have no hesitation in blocking time out. One day a week is dedicated to new business. I never have meetings in the early morning on Tuesday and Thursday because those are my training days. Late Monday is when I write content.
Friday is always a non-work day – unless there is an emergency that needs to be attended to.
Work out what days and times you need to block out and stick to it.
2. Be prepared for contingencies
Know that you will need time every day for those surprises, dramas, unexpected demands and interruptions. In my case, it is client work that needs attending to or team matters. And sometimes, you will need time to help a friend or colleague in need. And sometimes you will be on the phone to family and friends enjoying yourself.
3. Don’t Forget About Yourself
This is your wellbeing time, thinking time, time for family, friends and hobbies,
I often have time to do nothing (dumb time), too. It is important to switch off.
4. When are you most productive?
Some people work best in the morning, others in the middle of the day and others are night owls.
Does it matter? Maybe. If you are a night owl, modern work practices that work 9-5 won’t help.
But what you do during the day and when you do it determines how productive you are. I feel I am most productive and creative in the morning. That means that type of work should be done in the morning and emails later in the afternoon.
Work out what works for you.
5. We cannot multitask.
I know we all like to think we can multitask but when we do it is proven we are not productive. I went to a seminar recently and this was proved in a roomful of about 400 people.
Do one thing at a time. Work in batches. Phone calls, meetings, emails, reading — all are quite different.
6. Prioritise
What wasn’t urgent last week might be urgent today. And if it doesn’t need to be done immediately then don’t stress yourself over it, making yourself late for what does need prioritising.
7. Make decisions quickly.
Businesses that make slow decisions never progress. Over my nearly 20 years in business a lot of things have gone right and a crapload have gone wrong. Just get on with it.
Come to think of it I am not convinced I would have made any better decisions just because I spent more time on them.
8. Delegate
Yes, your team will screw up. Yes, they will get it wrong but over time they get it right most times and this will allow you a lot of free time.
Time management is step 3 of 9 to working less, earning more and creating wealth. If you would like to know more contact Hitesh at hitesh@medisuccess.com.au or call 07 3161 9548.
