The time management mantra is so entrenched into the mental fabric of leaders and managers that it seems to be an inborn sense. In fact, it is one of the greatest misconceptions which affects the productivity, health and wellbeing of millions of people across the globe.
The fact stands that we all have 24 hours available — no more and no less. Productivity, getting things done, was erroneously linked to the way we organize these 24 hours, 8 of which (at least) are devoted to work. However, a few pertinent observations challenge the time management myth.
Time management is not really an effective way of boosting productivity. Instead, leaders and managers should learn how to manage their energy levels.
One is that many top-level managers experience chronic fatigue, other health issues connected with stress, and a lower level of productivity, despite maintaining a strict time management schedule. Another is brought by a study conducted by Science Direct, which shows that the average professional is interrupted 87 times per day during their work tasks.
These two aspects indicate that time management is really not an effective way of boosting productivity. Instead, leaders and managers should learn how to manage their energy levels. Why does this approach make more sense? Here are a few reasons:
1. Everyone Knows Their High-Energy Period of the Day
While some of us get more things done first thing in the morning, others are most productive in the afternoon or even towards the evening. Matching complex tasks with these high energy moments of the day means that you are riding the wave of fast and accurate thinking and will complete this task without using up too much time.
Tackling intellectually demanding tasks during a low-energy moment will cause you to spend more time on them than you should, and accomplish less than during your energy peak.
2. Plan Your Day around Energy Recovering Time Frames, Not Activities
How many times have you wished you could take a 10-minute break from a task or from typing a report just to drink a glass of water and look outside, not at the computer screen? Guess what: you should take that break. Those 10 minutes are enough to recharge you with energy, refresh your mindset and allow you to return to your work in a more productive state.
Instead of planning time around tasks, plan around energy recharging breaks, and you will notice that, although you spend less time with your tasks, you will complete more of them.
3. High and Low Energy Levels Influence Your Interactions with Others
Short-tempered and nervous managers are usually experiencing a low level of energy. Lack of patience and empathy are due to the burnout caused by too much work on a limited supply of energy.
Thus, low energy does not only cause you to work slower and less accurately — it also damages your relationship with your peers and subordinates. Not understanding the need to manage your energy will have a direct role in deteriorating team spirit and morale at the office.
4. Integrating Activities Which Recharge You into Your Routine Makes You a Better Leader
Some leaders tend to have a little Zen garden in their office. Others take a coffee break and socialize with their colleagues. Others simply look at the skyline and meditate. Whatever replenishes your energy should become a part of your daily routine. It is not wasted company time — it is valuable time which allows you to be a better leader, able to complete projects more accurately and with more creative ideas.
5. Learning to Manage Your Energy Will Improve Your System of Thinking
People who are in tune with their energy needs experience a change in how they think. They find positive ways of looking at negative outcomes — even if it is just a lesson to be learned.
In turn, this system of thought will influence people around you to think the same and to tap into their energy needs. It starts with you, but it also expands to others. Your entire team will learn to focus on their energy and use their time to get the most done at their most energetic moments.
