Best Practices: Time Management

Time is the scarcest resource of the manager; if it is not managed, nothing else can be managed.”

—Peter Drucker, management guru and author
(1909–2005)

Constant last-minute pleas to begin or finish projects
Exhausted staff members

Do allow yourself more time than you think you need to perform necessary tasks.
Don’t let distraction sabotage your list of tasks.
Don’t forget to factor in time sinks like e-mail and returning phone calls.
Don’t fall into time traps like private net surfing or excessive chatting with coworkers

Do ask yourself the basics: Who, What, When, Where, Why and How.
Do make lists and stick to them. According to experts, lists are one of the most effective time management tools

To ensure that you are being both efficient and effective, it’s critical that you match your priorities with the right tasks, and focus most of your attention on those things that will help you reach goals. That’s time well spent

Remain focused on implementation and action. Achieve your tasks and objectives, and you’ll hit the big target right where and when you’re supposed to.

Do work with a teammate who will keep you honest about your progress—and compliment you on your efforts.
Do celebrate and reward yourself when objectives are met and goals are accomplished

Do write down your goals and post them in a prominent spot where you’ll see them regularly.
Do remember what you ultimately hope to achieve. Keep your eye on the prize, so to speak.
Don’t forget why you’re doing what you’re doing