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Categorize to Maximize Efficiency

Written by: Joy Duling

Article Overview: No matter how you keep track of your projects and tasks, it can be extremely beneficial to categorize your activities and tackle like-items at the same time.

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Categorize to Maximize Efficiency

Most small business owners have a to-do list of some sort, whether you call it that or not. Everyone has their own preference and there are a lot of options. Some people like to write lists with a pen and paper, others might keep on the computer. There are also several free web-based to-do lists that can help you prioritize and track your activities.

No matter how you keep track of your projects and tasks, it can be extremely beneficial to categorize your activities and tackle like-items at the same time. By grouping your tasks together, you can maximize the use of your time, maintaining control over your thoughts and avoiding "drift" as you work through your list.

For example, if you have several phone calls to make, list them all together, complete with names and phone numbers. Then pick up the phone and start dialing. Take good notes and spend a minute jotting down any important thoughts after the call, but don't stray to your e-mail or other projects between calls. Focus on making each call on your list.

Once you've completed all of the items under your "Phone Calls" category, you'll realize how much you've accomplished in a short amount of time, and you'll be ready to move on to the next item.

Other categories you might consider include marketing, client management, research or errands. Use whatever makes sense to your business for that day.

Why this matters...

Grouping similar items together let you focus your energy and maintain the same frame of mind as you move from one item to another. You will be more productive and organized if you can apply the same thoughts and ideas consistently rather than skip around and regenerate your train of thought each time. It allows you to take advantage of the momentum you create as you work through your list.

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Home > Business-Coach > Joy Duling > Categorize to Maximize Efficiency
Article Tags: amount of time, client management, drift, e mail, errands, frame of mind, maintaining control, management research, marketing, momentum, pen and paper, phone numbers, preference, similar items, small business owners, thoughts and ideas, train
Referred by: http://www.calahansolutions.com

About the Author: Joy Duling
RSS for Joy's articles - Visit Joy's website

All great visionaries need someone behind the scenes who helps them create a solid plan to move from point A to point B. As a Business Strategist and Managing Director of the professional services firm, A 25 Hour Day, LLC, Joy Duling plays that role, helping time-pressed professionals find the focus, systems and accountability they need to achieve their goals. View Joy's motivational personal video message for all entrepreneurs and small business owners at http://www.FearlessLeaps.com.

Click here to visit Joy's website
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