In a world where time seems to slip through our fingers, Totalmobile’s Chief People and Places Officer, Gill Mahon, a seasoned expert in juggling responsibilities, shares her invaluable insights into the art of time management. Here, Gill shares her five practical tips to help individuals harness the power of their precious hours.
- Prioritise with Purpose: Try to start each day by identifying the critical tasks that align with broader goals. This ensures that energy is directed towards what truly matters, fostering a sense of accomplishment and progress. Don’t undervalue the significance of prioritisation.
- The 5-Minute Rule: In a world inundated with “just a quick task”, Gill suggests applying the five-Minute Rule. If a task takes less than five minutes to complete, do it immediately. This prevents the ever-growing collection of minor to-dos that can sometimes feel overwhelming and will free up mental space for more time-demanding challenges!
- Strategic Time Blocking: Time blocking is a cornerstone of effective time management. Gill advises carving out specific blocks in your schedule for focused work on particular projects. This conscious approach helps guard against distractions, allowing for deeper concentration and heightened productivity. Utilisng your emails insights can be a great starting point.
- Embrace the Power of No: In a culture that often glorifies busyness, Gill advocates for the liberating art of saying no. Recognise personal limitations and be selective with commitments. This not only prevents burnout but also ensures that time is spent on endeavours aligned with personal and professional aspirations. The power in saying “No” It can even lead us to new opportunities that wouldn’t have been achievable by saying yes. It also allows us to set boundaries – and they are key!
- Have a Tech Detox: Constant connectivity can be a double-edged sword. To enhance productivity, our Gill recommends occasional tech detoxes. Designate specific periods without email, notifications, or social media, allowing for uninterrupted focus on high-priority tasks or even some much needed downtime.
Mastering time management is an ongoing journey, and perfection is not the goal. Instead, it’s about cultivating habits that align with individual strengths and objectives. By implementing these five practical tips, individuals can navigate the intricate dance of time with strengthen and purpose.
