We all know that time is our most precious commodity. I have been coaching entrepreneurs for many years, and the request always comes up to help them with time management. Recently, a client of mine (a former professional hockey player), asked me to help him manage his time more effectively and identify areas of poor time usage. I have taken so many clients through this exercise to know it radically transforms what they do and with whom they do it. It has been reported back to me, that it helped them be happier, healthier, and wealthier.
Let me briefly walk you through the process.
1. Begin with the End in Mind – Dr, Stephen Covey revealed this powerful “mindset” habit in his best-selling book “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People”.
a. Imagine progressing at a blazing speed, making great strides, only to discover that you were moving in the wrong direction.
b. Or, what if you started out moving in the right direction only to drift off course slightly and wind up significantly missing your intended destination.
c. Take time to discover your purpose in life. It is not easy; however, once you have a good idea of why God put you on this planet and His plan for you, it becomes your “True North.”
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2. Once you have a clear vision and purpose for your life, you can now use this as your guide to structure your time. A number of years ago, I was spending a lot of time speaking in Canada at my friend’s events. I remember him saying that people don’t have time management problems; they have time priority problems. I have thought about the truth of this statement over the past few years and have not discovered any exceptions.
3. Take some time to prioritize your life using these 4 pillars. Spiritual, Relational, Health, and Finances.
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For example: In my life, my faith (spiritual) takes center stage. I have daily disciplines, weekly habits, and yearly events plugged into my schedule. My relationships are the second most important, so I place high priorities on time with my wife, children, and friends. I typically form strong bonds with my clients, as well. My health comes in third with daily exercise, healthy eating, and the avoidance of unhealthy habits. Finances are important; however, I don’t allow it to control me or define me. Don’t get me wrong; I love creating value that, in return, provides my family with a healthy amount of money; however, I focus on being a conduit and not a reservoir for the blessing I receive.
4. Perfect balance is not possible. It is unreasonable to think we could divide our priorities into 25% each day. The key is simple. Picture your four pillars as 4 bank accounts. Making regular deposits and only occasional withdrawals will build massive “wealth” in each account over time.
5. Use this rule every morning. As you plan to review your daily schedule, say to yourself…“What is the highest and best use of my time, talent, energy, and resources?”
6. In business, I customize with my clients the principles and processes outlined in the book “Traction” by Gino Wickman.
Conclusion
There is a better way to plan your schedule when you know what your priorities are. This principle helps keep us on the path of meaning and purpose.
From success to significance.
