Time management is not just a skill; it’s a crucial habit that can transform your day-to-day productivity and success, whether you’re leading a team, running a business, or consulting for multiple clients. In my role as a people leader and consultant, I’ve had to work hard to make sure I manage my time wisely. This has allowed me to devote time to preparing for my coaching sessions, ensuring that my team gets the support and guidance they need.
Here are some key strategies I’ve used to master time management:
1. Prioritize Tasks Based on Impact and Deadlines:
It’s essential to focus on what will drive the most value for your team or clients. In consulting, you may have several clients at once, each with their own timelines and priorities. I’ve found that using a matrix to evaluate the urgency and importance of tasks helps me allocate my time effectively. There are other methods, but they mostly come down to what will have the biggest impact on future work as well as an immediate impact on your line of business.
2. Set Clear Boundaries:
As a people leader, it’s easy to get pulled into every issue that arises. However, setting clear boundaries around when you’re available for certain tasks — whether it’s meetings, responding to emails, or one-on-one sessions — helps ensure that your time is protected for deep work and preparation. This requires a bit of self-discipline not only when you’re working remotely, but also when working from home. Setting these boundaries help not only your team know when you are available for chit-chat, but it also helps you stay on task.
3. Use Time-Blocking:
This technique involves scheduling blocks of time in your calendar for specific activities. I regularly block off time for coaching preparation, reviewing projects, and strategic thinking. This prevents smaller, less impactful tasks from eating away at your day. For instance: I would schedule time every Wednesday to listen to calls and write up coaching plans for the next week. On Mondays, I would set aside time to review new product notes or training documents. Block off your time like this allows you to effectively manage what you’re doing and when and allows you to get more out of your time than just haphazardly attacking whatever new thing comes along.
4. Take Breaks and Avoid Burnout:
Whether you’re a leader, consultant, or anything in-between means you’re constantly on the go, but breaks are crucial for maintaining long-term productivity. Taking regular breaks to recharge throughout the day helps me make sure I’m fully present when it matters most. Being able to give your team 100% when you’re available is more important than being available 100% of the time and not being able to give them you all.
Mastering time management is a lifelong practice. With consistent effort, you can ensure that your time is spent on the right activities that move you closer to your goals while balancing your personal and professional responsibilities.