It seems we all want to be more productive these days. As a productivity expert and coach for individuals - whether you’re a business owner or an employee - I’ve found it’s most important to hone in on personal energy management, personal time management, and prioritizing what’s most important to you.

What is time management?

Efficient time management involves organizing and planning your tasks throughout the day and week so that you can get things done. I’m a huge proponent of the work smarter, not harder method, which is why I created Energetic Containers - containers of time that align with your personal energy levels throughout the week. They allow you to get the things you need to get done while conserving energy and fostering creativity. 

If you’re wondering how to manage time better, it seems everyone has a method. For instance, there are the 4 P’s of time management: prioritizing, planning, productivity, and positivity. You could also follow the 3 3 3 Method for managing time: spend 3 hours on your most important task, complete 3 smaller tasks you’ve been avoiding, and work on 3 life maintenance tasks to keep everything in order. 

Seems like a lot, huh? I’ve got you. Keep reading for my favorite time and resource management skills.

Importance of time management

To make prioritizing tasks and time management an effective goal, it’s essential to understand the benefits of time management. Knowing why you’re doing what you’re doing means you’ll be more motivated to stay on top of things. So, if you’re wondering, “Why is having time management skills important?” here are just a few reasons:

1. Less stress - This is the most significant benefit if you ask me. Less stress means less likelihood of burning out. Also, when you’re less stressed, you’re mentally and physically healthier. Win/win.

2. Greater focus - When you know what you’re doing and WHEN you’re doing it, you’ll be able to focus more on the tasks at hand. And with that, you’ll see…

3. Higher productivity - Or, as I like to say, better productivity. With good time management, you’re able to prioritize your time better, and you can plan your day better so it supports what YOU need.

4. Increased energy - Seriously! You’ll have more energy to do the things you love because you’ve created a structure that works for you.

So now the only question is how to align your time and energy for better productivity. 

Time and energy management tips

If you want to learn effective time management skills, the first step is to figure out how you’re currently using your time. I know it sounds simple, but self-awareness is my go-to as far as energy management techniques go.

Keep a notebook or journal next to your keyboard and jot down the time it takes you to accomplish important tasks. Pay attention to how much time you spend in your car on the way to appointments or the office. Especially pay attention to the amount of time you spend doing the tasks you dread or procrastinate on. Often, these dreaded tasks take less time than we realize.

Prioritize your “big rocks” first. This is something I’ve chatted about on my podcast - big rocks and small rocks. The idea comes from the professor who stood before their class with a bunch of different materials: big rocks, medium-sized rocks, pebbles, sand, and water. When they asked the class which items to put in first, there was a big difference in outcomes. If they started with the big rocks first, all the other things filled in the gaps - even the water had room. However, if they started with the smaller parts first, there would be no room for the big rocks.

Your big rocks are in the important or more complicated tasks. Do them first, and you’re set!

Finally, find an organizational system that works for you and your unique strengths. If you’re not a planner person, don’t use one. If you live by your phone, make sure to use the calendar there. The key to effective time and personal energy management is to find what works for YOU.

Are you ready to take your productivity to a higher level? Let’s chat!