Saving TIME

We all have the same amount of time, a twenty-four hour day. Some people make greater use of it than others.  

          Our time is our most valuable commodity so aim to make the best use of it.

          Good working habits can save you much time and effort.

Five of the best tips to help you save time

* Make time to plan your tasks

          Think long and hard before you start a task. It could save you much time and prevent mistakes. 

          Apportion your time for family commitments, work and leisure activities.  

* Set your goals and objectives

          Break each goal down into small, achievable steps.

          Tackle one step at a time and concentrate on that step until completed.  Then move on to the next step. Reward yourself when you reach a goal.

* Set your priorities

          Make a ‘to-do’ list of tasks. Arrange them in order of importance and indicate when they should be completed.

          Keep a schedule. Set your tasks for the following day before leaving work.

          Do the things that are urgent first.   

* Identify your peak working hours and use them well

          Look for techniques that best suit your style of work. If your peak working time is after your coffee break, guard that time for your important tasks.

* Practise making fast decisions

          Don’t become a perfectionist.

          Don’t waste time on unimportant activities.

          Avoid procrastination. Get things done as soon as possible. Planning and perseverance are the keys to getting things done on time.

          Gain a reputation of a person who gets things done quickly and efficiently.  

-Geoffrey Moss

“For peace of mind ration your time.”

Source: “Time-Savers”, Moss Associates Ltd, New Zealand (www.mossassociate.co.nz) and “Time Management Secrets” Cengage Learning Asia, Singapore. Also available as an E-book from Amazon.com.