<p><b><i>Time Management.</i></b> An interesting concept, and a topic that Solutions EAP is asked to present fairly often in a workshop format. It occurs to me that what employers are really interested in, is productivity. To actually manage time is an oxymoron, as time really can´t be managed in the way we would like to think it could. We´re just not that omnipotent. Helping people manage themselves so that they become more efficient at completing their work in a timely fashion seems to be a much more doable concept.</p>
<p>Time management has always amused me because I happen to excel at procrastination, and yet have memorized, and present time management techniques. However, one needs to implement these wonderful tools and techniques in order to "manage the time". Time continues to pass all around the world without regard or reference as to what we individually are doing at any given moment. Often people claim to just need "more time to get all this done". Actually there is more time; it just keeps on ticking away.</p>
<p>I find "time management" to be somewhat like dieting. Not all things work for everyone, and the only way they work is if we are willing to be diligent at managing ourselves and accept the responsibility that it takes real effort to actually implement changes in our lives. If you are not pre-destined to be the multi-tasker of the century, the tips outlined in the next few weeks should help. Accepting that sometimes you may fail even with the best effort also allows you to not give up, but to try again, and maybe re-examine what other changes need to be made to successfully feel the sense of accomplishment. With that being said.... now here´s where we actually explore the possibility of getting more done in less time.</p>
<p> The next couple of weeks I will outline the use of LISTS, how to make them and use them. The great "Blackberry", palm pilots and general planners designed to save us time as we micro manage ourselves to the second. Delegating some of the "To do´s" on the list; the need for advance preparation to achieve these tasks. And finally, honestly examining if you are being realistic in your goals, trying to overachieve, or just making excuses on why nothing gets done!</p>
<p><i>"Time may change me, but I can´t trace time..." David Bowie</i></p>
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