Everyday many of us struggle to get through the “to do” list. We are too busy doing all the “stuff” that gets in the way. Many of us even struggle to get that pet project started. We tell ourselves we need more information or everything needs to be perfect before we can dare ourselves to take the first steps. We’re perfectionists and we’re damned if we’ll be seen to make even the smallest mistake.

The truth is we’ve probably developed some bad habits in relation to managing our time.

What if we planned the following day?

Further, what if we stuck to the plan? Maybe if we even took the time to identify the imperative tasks we needed to progress the following day and allocated a definite time when we’d work on this task. We’d make that appointment with ourselves and fully focus for that block of time. Emails, calls and disruptions would be left to wait while we selfishly focused on the completion of those imperative tasks. Once complete and at our allocated time we could catch up on those issues – if they still existed.

Time is precious. Time expires. You cannot make time. You cannot horde time.

However, time is the one resource around which you have most control.

Develop some simple planning techniques to help you use your time more effectively. More importantly, stick to your plan. Focus on the imperative activities that will progress your goals.

Sounds simple doesn’t it? It is and it works, provided you’ve developed good time management habits.

Take the time to plan and develop yours.

It’s the best investment you’ll make in yourself.