In a fast paced world, often we are focused on maximum output with minimum time, because of this, time management the key to success. Many do not realize some simple, everyday habits directly effect how time is optimized.
1. Be aware! Potentially the most difficult part of managing your time is paying attention to what’s going on around you. It is so easy to go with the flow, an Amazon-like river created by the world which we are dropped into at birth. We are told who, what, where and why for the first 20 years plus of our lives and then all of a sudden we are 50 and realize we never really thought about what we wanted to do with our lives. Perhaps we long for the care free nature of our youth, envy the completeness of our elders, or most sadly covet the life style of our neighbors. These thoughts stem from a lack of self-awareness.
2. Understand what is controlling you. Are you a servant to debt, social or family pressure and expectations? Maybe you want status, money, power and fame or perhaps you spend too much time on recreation? Consider the man who ends up watching a movie on TV. When combined with commercials it is 2x the length of the version he owns on DVD. Who is controlling who? Employers who pay attention find that employees have no idea that their 1 minute check of facebook is actually 15 mins, 5x a day, 5 days a week wasting over 6 work hours.
3. Decided who you want to be and then begin testing your choices against that standard. If you desire to a person of integrity, held in high regard by your peers and a value asset of your company then you need to engage in behavior that reflect that. The truth will be exposed.
4. Make the most of every opportunity. The time has come, your moment to shine is now. If you don’t act you will miss it. In sports one of the most valuable feelings is a sense of urgency. There may be 45 minutes of play left but you need to score now if you’re going to win.
5. Engage wise counsel. You need the perspective of others. Surrounding yourself with people who will encourage, challenge, and sharpen your focus is a long-term strategy that you can begin to implement today. Find the person you want to emulate and spend time with them. Wise counselors enjoy the opportunity to help others. Take their advice seriously or you may lose their attention because they value their time too.
To further understand time management, local businessmen are invited to attend the second annual Christian Men’s Business Conference on Friday, August 23, 12:30-5:30 p.m. at the Savannah Christian Education building at 50 Al Henderson Blvd., the conference will focus on time management skills in the workplace. It is also being held in conjunction with the third annual Pivot Rally at the Savannah Civic Center on August 23, 6-10 p.m.
About the Author:
Daniel Pavlin, Account Executive with Bernard Williams and Company for 10 years, specializes in Church and Non-Profit Risk Management. A Graduate of Savannah Christian Preparatory School and Milligan College, he lives in Richmond Hill with his wife Lauren and four children, including two newborn baby girls. Dan has a passion for serving the community through endurance sports and special events, a member of Savannah Christian Church and is on the leadership team of Buy Local Savannah, Savannah Harbor Foundation, and FCA Endurance Savannah.