The first tip for making time previously introduced in yesterday’s post was First Things First: Schedule family related events first, then the rest.
Staring at a full schedule is something with which we are all familiar. Often we experience the feeling of being overwhelmed, or worse yet, attempting to “find time” for important events outside of work. Though some days we are forced to play crisis manager, the truth is that there is always time to complete the important tasks and still be able to have time for family and friends. We must simply make the time. Whether it’s coaching little league practice, karate promotions, faith related activities, volunteering, etc. schedule these items first. By doing so, you have just made the time for all of your most important events for that day/week/month. Once this becomes habit you will begin to work more effectively and efficiently because you already have your goal(s) in mind.
After your important times are properly allocated, proceed to populate the rest of your schedule but proceed with caution. While obvious, we must be reminded to only schedule approximately five to six hours of an average eight to ten hour work day. Always leave time for unplanned interruptions and, just as important, some down time during the day to recharge. Few of us have the ability to put forth our best effort without experiencing some fatigue during the day. In fact, Harvard Business Review published a post on January 25, 2010 entitled Get Creative by Zoning Out (http://bit.ly/6AHKsx) which I recommend you read.
Although this may seem elementary in nature, how frequently over the last six to twelve months have you experienced a struggle to make an event that should have been easy attend? If the answer is even just once, then it may be as elementary as you think. Make the time to be present at the events which are most important to you and others. Make the time to show your family and friends that they are just as important as your job. Make the time in your schedule and you will see a reduction in your attempt to find the time.
