How to Create More Time!

When people reflect on their life, a common statement that arises is, "I wish I had more time." In fact, when people are asked what they would like most in their life, "time" is ranked in the top 3 of all responses. Why do we struggle with this problem? The answer is found in our lifestyle. We are living in a culture of rapid change, largely due to technology. As a result, we are feeling overwhelmed with trying to accommodate for this rapid change while balancing our work, family, commitments, relationships, health, etc. After gathering many hours of research in this area, I have concluded that 90% of all people who claim they have no time indeed have more than enough time to manage their life. They fail due to inadequately allocating their time. I have studied this area in-depth and would like to offer you one strategy that will exponentially increase your productivity.

The 1-2-3-4-5 Method.

If you are a person who enjoys creating lists, then you will really find this strategy useful. This method is based on creating a list of tasks you need to complete.

CLARITY IS POWER! When you complete this exercise, not only will you experience clarity and awareness, but you will feel AMAZING! If I can equate it to anything, it would be the same feeling a person experiences 2 after organizing or cleaning their office, house, desk, etc. They feel liberated and in control of your life!

Here it is! Every night, create a list (write it down on paper) of all the things you need or would like to get done the next day (I recommend you do this weekly or monthly as well). Once you have your list, create the following headings.

1. Must Do's: These are all the things you must get done tomorrow. If you do not complete these tasks, you will suffer an unfortunate consequence. Behaviours that may fall into this category are completing an important assignment at work, preparing for a meeting, working on a major project, spending time with a loved one, visiting a friend who is ill, etc.

2. May Do's: These are the tasks that are important, but you will not suffer an immediate consequence if you do not accomplish them. Behaviours which may fall into this category are planning for a meeting later in the week, working on a project or an assignment that is weeks away, organizing your office or house, etc.

3. Want to Do's: These are tasks that you would like to do, but there is no consequence if you do not complete them. Behaviours that fall in this category are checking unimportant emails, talking on the phone, spending time on FaceBook, shopping, surfing the internet, reading a book/magazine, visiting a friend, etc.

4. Delegate: When you look at your list, you may see a number of tasks that can be accomplished by someone else. Often we complete tasks that can be achieved by another person (spouse, co-worker, colleague, friend, children, etc.). Delegate whatever you can on your list.

5. Eliminate:When you read your tasks, ask yourself, "Is this really necessary?" "Is this something I should be spending my time on?" I guarantee you there will be items on your list that you can eliminate.

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   Change Agent Power Exercise

   Take Action Now! Write down all of the tasks you need to complete today and apply this method. Do not wait another second! Ensure to write down your tasks on paper and place an 1,2,3,4, or 5 beside each task. Remember to stay focused and disciplined holding the end RESULT in your mind. That is, experiencing an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and time to do what you want to do! Your productivity will increase dramatically!