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Prioritizing Tasks

In one way or another everyone has a built-in time management system to get more work done in less time. One of the first things for learning time management skills is really knowing how to prioritize tasks. Effective time management is simply project time management.

If you'll notice, time management software always comes up with a critical path. Tasks in the critical path need to be accomplished in a given time or there will be delays and disappointments.

Again, one of the first time management techniques is learning how to prioritize tasks. It means working smarter and not longer. Make a list of things that need to be accomplished in a day. What doesn't get done today is moved to the next day. Each task get an A, B, or C priority.

The A tasks are in the critical path. How many A tasks flow into the next day that shouldn't be there? Perhaps some A tasks require more time. Then you will need to keep a separate weekly schedule. Use a weekly planner.

Routine tasks are in the C priority. They can shift to the next day if necessary. The B type of tasks may be those for which someone else needs to accomplish something before you can continue.

You may want to create lists of tasks by category. These categories may be work, family, home, and school. Set completion dates for each task. For C tasks, estimate a time span for each one. When you have free time, check to see what task fits inside your free time. Accomplishing little tasks gives you momentum.

As with any time management software, you need to see if your time slots conflict with anyone else. What about resources? Do you need a tool that someone may need at the same time?

These considerations may be more important at work than at home or in your own personal management.

To summarize, prioritize the A tasks that will have a strong negative impact if not accomplished in time. For the B tasks, keep abreast of what others are doing and get assurances they will provide the information or resources you need in ample time. You don't want to to be forced to convert a B task into an A task.

The C tasks are routine tasks that you may be able to accomplish during free time. Can't sleep at night? Get out of bed and complete a C task that doesn't require too many creative juices. You'll feel great. This could become one of your best time management skills.

Study your habits. Find what is keeping you from overcoming procrastination. Turn you new time management skills into a time management game and you will find that your previous inability to manage time is a thing of the past.

See our previous article on Organizing Your Life.

Other wiki resources: set goals; delegating authority; things that rob your time; procrastination; anger control