People who efficiently manage their time are generally “happier” than the unstructured ones. They quickly decide for what is most important first, clearly knowing the main priorities and urgencies.

The more effective ones are those who also have a wide systemic view that allows them to schedule short, medium and long-term plans. Their high time management capability facilitates the achievement of their goals, raising life quality both at professional and personal level.

They rarely are in a rush and, furthermore, their focus on productivity reduces risks of panic attack during emergency… a good skill in a workaholic and dynamic environment.

So, what are the main strategies those people adopt? Actually there are many, here below I would point out 4 of them that are accessible to all.

·        2 minute rule

David Allen, one of the most famous productivity consultants ever, gave us a meaningful piece of advice on time management in his bestseller “Getting Things Done”. “If it takes less than two minutes, then do it now.” It’s surprising how many things people put off that they could get done in two minutes or less, for instance sending an email, giving a short feedback or confirming a meeting. Obviously, not all the goals can be accomplished in less than two minutes, but every goal can be started in 2 minutes or less. This is the main purpose behind this simple rule.

·        Take your time to reflect

If the goal is to improve the productivity level, people need to set aside some time for thought throughout the day. Five minutes to reflect after a meeting can help you better evaluate information. It’s strategic to schedule a few reflection-sessions during the day, you could certainly use that time to plan your future tasks too.

·        Dare and say “NO”

One of the people’s main priorities should be to protect their work schedule. Once, for any reasons, people lose their calendar governance, they will be in trouble 99% of the times.  Letting someone else lead your time could be a big mistake, even if that one is your boss. Of course, you have to be flexible in adjusting your priorities. However, you need to ensure an adequate time availability to properly complete your job. Let’s decline / postpone invitations to non-essential meetings and eliminate distractions while you work. It will help have a healthier working approach.

·        Track and review your time schedule

People who are used to tracking their tasks, carefully planning them, have a more accurate reading of how they are spending their hours during the working day. As well as planning tasks, reviewing the schedule with a critical eye is important to improve productivity. If you are aware about what could be even better, it will be easier to take the right steps streamlining the daily routine and main tasks.

Zig Ziglar, a famous American speaker, said: “Lack of direction, not lack of time, is the problem. We all have twenty-four hour days.”

It’s really clear that the most precious resource we all have is time. Let’s learn how to effectively manage it, it will definitely help you have a better and more meaningful life!