Time management - six simple ways you can surrender control over your time

Here are 6 beliefs or behaviours to guard against - they’ll steal time from you:

I must be perfect in everything I do It's right that you make the maximum effort when undertaking a task. However, the mind-numbing desire to "always be perfect" actually prevents projects being completed, reports being handed-in on time etc. The search for perfection also impairs your business relationships and co-operation with others. You need to marry a desire to "get things right" with an understanding of the need to "get things done"

I must always make an extra effort Why? Always?! Sometimes it's useful to recognize what you can't do - or what others can do better. Do make an extra effort where this gives you a genuine chance of success - not simply because you think it's "something you should do" or "be seen to be doing". If you hired Mozart, you'd want him writing concertos - not sorting the plumbing because a tap is dripping off-key!

I must always try Why? Always?! If you genuinely know that something is beyond your capabilities - why waste your time doing no more than proving this? Giving up and moving on to something you can be successful at is the act of a brave person. Carrying on towards inevitable failure is the path taken by fools I must please others Well - if you can, that's great. But if, at work, your first aim is always to please others - what are you actually doing to yourself? How does this have a negative effect on what you should be achieving? If you need a quick reality-check about the impossibility of pleasing everyone - take up sports refereeing or umpiring!

I must hurry up Famous words: "More haste less speed". Or, another great saying: "There's never enough time to do it right - but always enough time to do it again". Aim to work as quickly as you accurately can. Otherwise, much more time is lost in the repair than was ever gained in the construction!

I must hide my weaknesses Another act of the insecure. Imagine a boss who occasionally says to you: "Look, I'm no good at this. You're the expert. Give me your opinion". And imagine how positively others would respond to such a level of honesty. Any weakness you try to hide will eventually end up not just out in the open - but in the full glare of the spotlight Six mistaken beliefs that have wasted so much time. Be brave enough to overcome any such thoughts - and you'll find time is more of a friend than it used to be!



Time management - six simple ways you can surrender control over your time - To learn more about this author, visit Gordon Veniard's Website.

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