FOCUSING YOUR ENERGY / 103Managing your time
It is easy to get distracted from key
tasks by less important, but nonetheless
urgent activities. Prioritizing your actions
is something you should schedule in
every day, and approach with discipline.
A simple solution is to write a “to do” listat the end of each day. Scrutinize this
list, assessing each item against your
vision, values, and key objectives; then,
number each item in order of priority.
Alternatively, try categorizing your tasks
more systematically under the four
headings shown below.Typical activitiesDealing with difficult people
>>^ Being closely involved with
time-critical projects
>> Attending key meetingsWhat happens when you spend
time on this
>> Constant crisis management
>>^ Exhaustion and stress
>>^ Burnout over the long-termAction: Do it now, but review your time planningHIGH URGENCY: HIGH IMPORTANCE
Typical activities>>^ Planning ahead
>>^ Anticipating problems
>> Guiding and training the team
>>^ Delegating
>>^ Building relationshipsWhat happens when you spend
time on this
>>^ Overview
>>^ Vision
>>^ BalanceAction: Schedule itLOW URGENCY: HIGH IMPORTANCE
IMPORTANCE HIGH
US_102-103_Focusing_your_energy.indd 103 30/05/16 3:01 pm