The Business Time Management Myth
As fast moving and complex as modern life has become, time management is a frequently discussed topic. It seems that every single day, a new "system" to manage time is introduced. However, the question becomes, "how effective are these "systems"?" I mean, do they really work?
The simple fact is that all of us have the same amount of time in a day, week, or month. And, we must operate our lives within that time.
It is important to understand that we can't control time, as it exists independent of us.
Most time management systems encourage people to keep some sort of "to do" list. Activities are generally listed in order of perceived importance.
The concept of making lists sounds good on the surface, until we encounter a dangerous intruder on our time. Namely....
Distractions!
Because of the emotional nature of human beings, we can easily be set off the course of our best intentions by distractions.
Frequently, we ALLOW ourselves to be distracted for a variety of reasons. Usually it revolves around the fact that we aren't energized by a given project or activity.
Yep, we get bored easily.
One key to being effective within time is to fully visualize the RESULTS of what we are doing. Be fully AWARE of WHY we are doing something.
Stay FOCUSED on that "why".
When all is said and done, we can't manage time. We can only manage OURSELVES within time. Sometimes, visual reminders can help us manage ourselves.
For example, a daily sales goal printed out and made clearly visible at our work space, can help keep us focused.
or, a large invoice for goods or services that we need to pay on a recurring basis, can help remind us to be more productive.
It is critical to understand that productivity is a CONSCIOUS act!
My name is Mike Hutchins, widely known as the "action"business coach. I am the author of "The Alligator Syndrome" which is an eBook guide that has become the "bible" of business owners who want to conquer information overload and feelings of being overwhelmed by their business, to finally create serious business profits. For your FREE copy- GO HERE (27.00 value)
About the Author: Mike Hutchins
Member Since: 02/16/2008
Company: Action Business Coach
Industry: Coach
Primary Web Site: http://michaelhutchinsonline.com


Great Topic
I find that focusing on the doing is hard. I have fallen into the trap of reading or searching for the next best thing rather than applying what I have learned. I paid so much money for all kinds of things and not applied a one of them until I realized what I was doing. YOu have to find a way to keep track of your life, you can do like MIke Dillard and spend maybe three or four hours a day working on you business in a productive way or 12-14 hours a day searching, reading, buying the latest and greatest tool or training and not making money because you lost focus on your business
Staying focused
Well said Mike...
This is by far one of the hardest things to master especially when you work from home. There is no-one looking over your shoulder checking on you. I found having a list done of what I want to achieve for the day works well.I try to get the main things done first. It certainly takes some effort in personal control!
Regards
Wendy Heyworth
www.wendyheyworth.com