How to Maximize Time Management as a Leader

Leaders have a unique set of responsibilities that require their time and attention. The pressure to get things done in an efficient manner can be overwhelming at times, but with the right time management, or as I prefer to refer to it, priority management strategies, leaders can make sure they are utilizing their time wisely and maximizing their productivity.

Best Practices in Priority Management

I know your time is valuable, so let’s get to the point of this blog… Best Practices in Priority Management for leaders:

1. Set Priorities. Leaders often have multiple tasks or projects that require their attention at any given time. That’s why it is important to prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. This means setting aside the most important tasks first and tackling them one by one until they are complete. Setting priorities will help you focus on what needs to be done and make sure that those tasks are completed in a timely manner.
2. Create a Schedule. Creating a schedule can help ensure that you stay organized and on track with your goals. It is important for leaders to plan ahead and set aside specific blocks of time for each task or project. Scheduling also helps ensure that no task falls through the cracks, as you will know exactly when it needs to be completed and how much time you need to set aside for it.
3. Delegate Tasks. Leaders don’t have to do everything themselves – in fact, delegating tasks is key to effective time management. By delegating certain tasks, leaders can free up more of their own time so they can focus on other important activities or take care of unexpected issues that may arise throughout the day. Delegating tasks also allows people in your organization to take ownership of certain projects and develop new skills in the process.
4. Set deadlines for yourself. One of the best ways to ensure that you complete tasks in a timely manner is to set deadlines for yourself. By giving yourself a specific date or time by which you need to complete a task, you’ll be more likely to stay focused and get the task done efficiently. Additionally, setting deadlines can help you track your progress and see how much you’ve accomplished over time.
5. Avoid Time Wasters. There are a number of activities that can waste time and leaders need to avoid them if they want to be effective with their time management. Some common time wasters include checking email too frequently, engaging in social media, attending unnecessary meetings, and engaging in office gossip. Leaders should focus their time on activities that will help them achieve their goals and objectives.
6. Take Breaks. It’s important to take breaks throughout the day in order to stay fresh and focused. If you’re working on a task that is proving to be difficult, taking a five-minute break can sometimes be all you need to come back to the task with fresh energy and new ideas. Additionally, taking regular breaks will help you avoid burnout in the long run. Use your smart watch timer and set it to remind you every hour to get up, do one-minute of squats and drink some water.

Effective priority management is essential for leaders who want to maximize their productivity and get more done each day. By setting priorities, creating a schedule, and delegating tasks when necessary, leaders can stay organized while still making sure all of their responsibilities are taken care of in a timely manner. With these best practices in mind, leaders can ensure that they are spending their valuable time wisely and getting the most out of every day!

Robert Murray is a Vancouver, BC based Business Strategy Consultant, #1 Best Selling Author, International Keynote Speaker, and TEC Top Speaker of the Year for 2018. For further advice, insight and inspiration on how to unlock your inner leader, connect with Robert on LinkedIn.

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