1 + 1 = 3
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Bonjour. In this video I want to share a very simple principle of time management which can make a big difference to the way you manage your tasks.
I’m in the beautiful city of Munich training a group of seventeen leaders from a large global company. We have just had a discussion on task management, and how to keep track of all the things we have to do.
It was interesting to note that none of them are using the same system to keep track of their tasks. Some are using paper to-do lists, others are using apps on their iPhone, or capturing their to-dos on word documents, and a few are using excel spreadsheets.
There is definitely a common theme coming out of this discussion and that is the constant feeling of never getting on top of their to-do lists. Their list keeps growing despite their constant effort to tick off a task when it is completed.
Let me share a simple piece of advice: your to-do list should not be the end of the process. There are two important steps after writing a list: prioritize and schedule.
Most people use their to-do list at the last step of the process. They write down what they have to do, and when they have a little bit of time they try to do a few items on their list.
Having a to-do list is necessary as you cannot remember everything you have to do. However I suggest you review your list on a regular basis, ideally once a week. When reviewing your list you firstly need to prioritize the items on it AND THEN schedule these items in your calendar.
Prioritize : You can’t do everything, so you have to make some difficult decisions on what you can and can’t do.
Schedule : book a meeting with yourself in your calendar.
Simple but super important.
I hope that is useful. I’m going to go back to my training in this beautiful Munich city and have fun with this team.
A bientôt
Cyril
P.S. Whenever you’re ready… here are 4 ways I can help you be in control
1. Grab a free copy of my weekly plan
It is a simple tool but very important process to spend 2hrs more per day on your business and personal priorities.
2. Check my video blogs
For my clients, I record regular tips to keep the momentum on challenging their work habits. I have now made the previous video blogs available to all.
3. Get a copy of my book, Work Smarter: Live Better
Pushed by my clients, I wrote a book about practical ways to transform your life by changing your work habits.
4. Work with me and my team privately
If you are feeling swamped: by emails, by meetings, by things to do and you’d like me and my team to work directly with you … just send me an email and tell me a little about your team and business, and what you’d like to work on together, and I’ll personally be in touch!
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