Is time management a skill? How do some people get tons done, while others, not so much? How do some work full time and build a business on the side, or run multiple businesses while still managing time for family, fun, and vacations? Is that actually possible? Short answer, yes. But there has to be some strategy. In this post I’m going to cover the top three things that have helped me build a six-figure business while working full time and being a wife and mom.
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Make a Time Commitment
The formal term in the productivity and efficiency world is time blocking. Basically what this means is that you block out time six days a week that you are committed to taking action on whatever it is that you want.
For simplicity sake, let’s say you want to build a business. When I made that decision, I created windows of time each day that were non-negotiable to take the actions I needed to take.
To this day, I still have that window of time, 8-10pm, in which I take the actions I need to get a step or two closer to my dreams. This time is part of my schedule. It’s on my calendar.
I'm better in the evening, so that's when my time block is, but maybe you're a morning person. I have a friend who gets up at 4 am. so that she can get two hours in on her biz before her boys wake up. I'm better in the evening, so that's when my time block is.
Decide on a time and stick to it (unless, of course, you find it truly isn’t working and you need to tweak it). Don’t give up completely like so many others do. Just figure out a time that does work.
And have grace for yourself when it doesn’t happen. Things come up, you may miss for a sick kid here or a party there, but consistency is going to be what sets you apart from the crowd. It’s also what ultimately will determine your success.
Don’t forget, the extra mile isn’t crowded.
Ditch the Distractions
Whether or not time management is a skill, multi-tasking is surely a myth. When you multi-task, what you’re actually doing is contact switching, and it’s slowing you down.
Whether or not time management is a skill, multi-tasking is surely a myth. When you multi-task, what you’re actually doing is contact switching, and it’s slowing you down.
How can you stay on task?
Turn off all notifications on your phone. If possible, don’t even have your phone with you. Don’t leave email open or FB open, or any other tempting social media.
Since you’ve created your time blocks, commit to taking 1-3 specific actions that move the needle toward your goal. Then focus on just one at a time.
When you block out time, honor that commitment with ultra focus. I bet you’ll get so much more done in less time, and you’ll actually be proud of yourself and the progress you’re making!
Manage Your Time, or It Will Manage You!
In fact, your relationship with time is what you make it.
James Wedmore has a fantastic podcast episode about healing your relationship with time so that you always have plenty. Click here to listen.
One of the biggest excuses for not achieving goals or dreams is time. You do have enough time! An incredible book that also deep-dives this topic is The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks.
I used to think there was never enough time. Confession: I’m still growing in this area. I still have a lot on my plate and I don’t always get my priorities right.
The truth is, I often put others before myself, in my life and my biz. I’m not saying this is necessarily a bad thing, just something I’m working on as I grow and grow my biz.
For your own success, decide what your priorities are, block out the time you need, and then stay consistent.
And yes, I guess time management is a skill.
Just imagine how far you’ll be a year from now…
If you’re an entrepreneur needing more time…
