During a recent forum discussion in my It’s About Time online class, I was struck by a comment from a classmate. This comment shed light on a common belief about time management. Maybe you have a similar belief.

Do you feel that time management is about taking steps to be productive all the time? If so, I invite you to reconsider.

simplify101 to-do listI believe time management is about figuring out how to use your time in ways that are in sync with your values. If you value creativity, then finding time for creative pursuits means you’re managing your time well. Time management is also about using your time in ways that are fun for you. If you use a rainy day to make progress on an important project, this is great time management, even if you happen to enjoy the project!

Time management isn’t about deprivation. It’s about making intentional choices with your time, so you can get your must-do tasks done more efficiently creating more time for activities you enjoy doing.

stop sign graphicTake action! Start putting this idea into practice by identifying a must-do task that takes more of your time than you’d like. Then, look for ways to get it done more quickly. Try batching tasks—paying all the bills, or running all of your errands at once. Or use a timer to help you stay focused on your must-do task for longer. Interruptions, even self-inflicted ones, are huge time thieves! By focusing on just one task at a time, you’ll get your work done more efficiently, freeing up time for the fun stuff.

Do you believe that time management is about forcing yourself to get the icky stuff done? Are you ready to reconsider and put the ideas in this quick tip into action? Tell me about it in the comments! I look forward to hearing from you. 

Aby