Today we are busier than ever and certainly always pressed for time. Multitasking mars our thought processes. How does this impact our productivity? The instructor of my Time Management course utilized Stephen R. Covey’s Time Management Grid as an effective method for organizing priorities. The ideal is to perform work in Covey Quadrant II, “the zone.” Covey’s Quadrant II has the items that are non-urgent but important. These are the ones he believes we are likely to neglect; but, should focus on to achieve effectiveness. Important items are identified by focusing on a few key priorities and roles which will vary from person to person, then identifying small goals for each role each week, in order to maintain a holistic life balance.

Soon after completing this course (talk about timing), I heard an interview with Dave Crenshaw about the topic of “Switchtasking.” Read his blog post highlighted on CrankingWidgets.

Instead of trying to manage every task for your business, consider delegation. Delegation is presented as an important part of time management. Successful delegation, according to Covey, focuses on results and benchmarks that are to be agreed in advance, rather than on prescribing detailed work plans. This is where the addition of a Virtual Assistant(s) to your team is ideal; utilizing the VA’s strengths to pare down your to-do list while you focus on the big picture and revenue-producing activities.

Recap: Lessons learned: Remove undue pressure and self-imposed stress from your tasks. To err is human – learn from your mistake(s); create a countermeasure and move forward. Execute your tasks methodically with laser focus – like the tortoise and hare – slow and steady wins the race. Additional source: Wikipedia