Scheduling Tips

March 19th, 2006

The value of time. Life’s most precious resource. Since there is no way to get more of it, the best one can hope for is to use your time in the most effective manner possible. How much of your day is wasted? Do you maximize your efficiency, and get the most important things done daily? Or do you find yourself jumping from one remedial task to another?

To make more of your time, you need to have a plan. Step one is figuring out what is most important. Reflect upon your goals, and decide which tasks are most important in making those goals happen. Develop a priority list of which tasks require your attention. Label each task with A (highest), B (medium), or C (low priority), depending upon each task’s importance.

After you have sorted through your priority list, the next step is to schedule your time. Any planner will do, depending upon your preferences. I use Apple’s calendar - a better version of Microsoft Outlook. When planning your schedule, keep the following in mind:

  • Schedule your highest priority work first - make sure the important tasks get done
  • Schedule only part of your day - leave time for the unexpected
  • Avoid back-to-back meetings - leave time for recharging
  • Consolidate tasks such as email, phone calls, and paperwork - try to get these hammered out in blocks
  • Move uncompleted priority tasks to future time slots - always keep your high priority items visible
  • Try scheduling backwards - determine your time available, and work backwards
  • Don’t overschedule your time - too much clutter will bog you down
  • Use a to-do list - moving items from your to-do list to your schedule helps sort through tasks

    • Following the above steps should help in gaining some control over how you spend your day. Without a proper plan and scheduling, you’ll find yourself meandering through your day, with too many tasks left uncompleted. More tips to follow…

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