Where Does Your Time Go?

Losing track of time and being frustrated about not getting things done really sucks, but is so common you might think you have to just live with it.

Nope.  It turns out if you start paying more attention you'll make better choices and it can be a problem of the past.

If you're not sure where your time is going...

Tracking what you spend time on is the BEST way to get to any core issues.

Yeah, I know- it's a pain. But, SOOOO worth it! You will be amazed - likely you'll be both pleasantly surprised and completely disgusted after reviewing your results.

Importantly, you'll gain insight and motivation to make some changes to you can get more priority stuff done in less time. Following are tips for tracking so you can make changes and reap the benefits of better time use!

Here's what I recommend:

• USE AN APP.  I use an app on my smartphone that allows me to set up custom categories, is quick and easy to use, and has good reporting features so I have the information I need. 
• DON'T TRY TRACKING EVERY MINUTE. I track in 15 minute increments at the smallest.
• THINK ABOUT WHAT INFO YOU REALLY NEED.  The key is to decide what YOU want to track without getting too granular, and doing it consistently over time so your data is useful.
• LOOK AT THE BIGGER PICTURE. I have continued tracking all work days on & off for several years and have found reviewing things periodically to be very helpful in structuring my work-days for max effectiveness. (And for planning time OFF too!)

For best decision-making on where to make changes, you'll need to track for at least a week. You don't have to do it forever, just until you have information for making the situation better.

You can use paper, a spreadsheet, or go high-tech with a tracking app on your phone. Whatever works for YOU is fine.

Take a look at your calendar to get an idea of what "buckets" of time use you will want to track. You don't want too many, but it's helpful to have at least some categories to lump similar things together so the results are easier to interpret.

Also, don't overthink it or pick an app that requires too much set-up time. That would be ironic!

Quit putting it off and just do it.

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Because so many people have asked me over the years, here are even more specifics:  I use "Time Recording Pro" for Android.  The following categories usually work well for me (I might add one for a special project while I'm working on it, and have some subcategories when I want more detail):  Client Appt Paid, Client Care, Admin & Mktg, Sales, Networking & Relationships, Meeting Prep & Transit, Continuing Ed, Speaking Prep, Board/Service, Asset Creation, Team Support, and I also have some for Personal & Household, and a separate business venture.

What now?
 __ How could this help you?
 __ What are you willing to do so that you can experience real improvement?
 __ What’s your next step?
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How can I help you be more effective with your time? 

Here's to your success,