5 simple ways to save time

Time management doesn’t need to be complicated…

There are many ways to maximize the effective utilization of time, such as set goals, plan your day, schedule your tasks, delegate and organize your work area. But there are many other simple ways that you should not overlook. Here are five of them.

1. Don’t rush.  People who don’t have the time to do something right always seem to have the time to do it over again.  Mistakes occur more frequently when a job is done in a hurry.  Take the time to do it right in the first place.  If you can’t get everything done, at least get the most important things done right.
2. If in doubt, ask. Inadequate communications is a sinkhole for time.  Don’t bluff, ask.  Get your pride from a job well done, not from being able to guess what’s required. Asking is faster than trying to piece together fractured communications.  You are respected for your accomplishments, not your silence.
3. Write it down.  Writing things down does not mean you are circumventing your memory — you are simply helping it to do its job.  We all need reminders to prevent a myriad of essential tasks from dying of neglect.  The pen is mightier than the sword — and it writes better.
4. Avoid stress. Recognize you can’t do everything or be all things to all people. Be organized, effective and efficient; but don’t go on a guilt trip just because you can’t do the impossible. It’s not the stressful environment, but your reaction to it, that does the damage. Your health should be your number one priority. Without it you’re of little use to anyone.
5. Respect the time of others.  If everyone treated others as they themselves would like to be treated, there wouldn’t be the unnecessary personal interruptions, telephone calls, electronic messages and correspondence that most people are experiencing.  Accumulate your questions, concerns and assignments and interrupt others less frequently.